Table of Contents

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, DC  20549
__________________________________ 
FORM 10-Q
 (Mark One)
 
x     Quarterly Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 
for the quarterly period ended October 31, 2015July 30, 2016
 
or
 
o        Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
for the transition period from ______ to ______
 __________________________________ 
Commission file number 0-2816
 
METHODE ELECTRONICS, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

methodelog080115a03.gif
 
Delaware 36-2090085
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization) Identification No.)
 
7401 West Wilson Avenue, Harwood Heights,Chicago, Illinois 60706-4548
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
 
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code) (708) 867-6777
 
None
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  Yes x  No o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes x  No o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or smaller reporting company.  See definitions of “large accelerated filer” “accelerated filer,” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filer x
 
Accelerated filer o
   
Non-accelerated filer o
 
Smaller reporting company o
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes o  No x

At December 8, 2015,August 30, 2016, registrant had 38,106,82336,953,433 shares of common stock outstanding.


Table of Contents

METHODE ELECTRONICS, INC.
FORM 10-Q
October 31, 2015July 30, 2016

TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
  Page
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
   
   
   
 
   
   
   



Table of Contents

PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
Item 1. Financial Statements
 
METHODE ELECTRONICS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
($ in millions)
 
 As of As of As of As of
 October 31,
2015
 May 2,
2015
 July 30,
2016
 April 30,
2016
 (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)  
ASSETS  
  
  
  
CURRENT ASSETS  
  
  
  
Cash and cash equivalents $186.6
 $168.1
 $249.3
 $227.8
Accounts receivable, net 165.2
 170.4
 155.8
 175.5
Inventories:    
    
Finished products 13.8
 16.0
 12.5
 11.9
Work in process 9.7
 12.2
 8.9
 9.6
Materials 42.7
 42.7
 44.8
 44.7
 66.2
 70.9
 66.2
 66.2
Deferred income taxes 13.9
 15.0
 
 11.8
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 18.5
 13.9
 16.6
 14.9
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 450.4
 438.3
 487.9
 496.2
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT 313.5
 309.2
 325.3
 325.9
Less allowances for depreciation 223.0
 215.9
 235.0
 232.9
 90.5
 93.3
 90.3
 93.0
GOODWILL 1.6
 1.7
 1.7
 1.7
INTANGIBLE ASSETS, net 10.1
 11.3
 8.4
 8.9
PRE-PRODUCTION COSTS 9.4
 10.5
 13.2
 9.5
DEFERRED INCOME TAXES 28.9
 32.1
 36.7
 27.7
OTHER ASSETS 19.0
 18.6
 17.9
 18.9
 69.0
 74.2
 77.9
 66.7
TOTAL ASSETS $609.9
 $605.8
 $656.1
 $655.9
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY  
  
  
  
CURRENT LIABILITIES  
  
  
  
Accounts payable $71.2
 $70.1
 $69.3
 $68.2
Other current liabilities 40.3
 60.5
 35.9
 49.7
TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES 111.5
 130.6
 105.2
 117.9
LONG-TERM DEBT 22.0
 5.0
 54.0
 57.0
OTHER LIABILITIES 3.9
 4.0
 2.6
 2.9
DEFERRED COMPENSATION 7.8
 7.2
 8.4
 8.0
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY  
  
  
  
Common stock, $0.50 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized, 39,453,447 and 39,702,036 shares issued as of October 31, 2015 and May 2, 2015, respectively 19.7
 19.9
Common stock, $0.50 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized, 38,300,057 and 38,181,985 shares issued as of July 30, 2016 and April 30, 2016, respectively 19.2
 19.1
Additional paid-in capital 108.7
 102.2
 117.1
 112.3
Accumulated other comprehensive income (16.4) (8.3) (15.1) (8.4)
Treasury stock, 1,346,624 shares as of October 31, 2015 and May 2, 2015 (11.5) (11.5)
Treasury stock, 1,346,624 shares as of July 30, 2016 and April 30, 2016 (11.5) (11.5)
Retained earnings 364.1
 356.5
 376.2
 358.6
TOTAL METHODE ELECTRONICS, INC. SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY 464.6
 458.8
Noncontrolling interest 0.1
 0.2
TOTAL EQUITY 464.7
 459.0
 485.9
 470.1
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY $609.9
 $605.8
 $656.1
 $655.9
 
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

2

Table of Contents

METHODE ELECTRONICS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (Unaudited)
($ in millions, except per share data)
 
 Three Months Ended Six Months Ended Three Months Ended
 October 31,
2015
 November 1,
2014
 October 31,
2015
 November 1,
2014
 July 30,
2016
 August 1,
2015
  
  
      
  
Net sales $208.4
 $229.7
 $411.7
 $447.8
 $191.9
 $203.3
            
Cost of products sold 157.5
 169.5
 307.2
 337.2
 137.8
 149.7
            
Gross profit 50.9
 60.2
 104.5
 110.6
 54.1
 53.6
            
Selling and administrative expenses 24.5
 25.4
 47.6
 47.6
 27.4
 23.2
            
Income from operations 26.4
 34.8
 56.9
 63.0
 26.7
 30.4
            
Interest income, net (0.3) (0.1) (0.5) (0.2) 
 (0.2)
Other (income) / expense (0.2) 0.2
 (0.5) 0.1
Other income, net 
 (0.3)
            
Income before income taxes 26.9
 34.7
 57.9
 63.1
 26.7
 30.9
            
Income tax expense 5.7
 8.7
 13.1
 15.7
 5.5
 7.4
            
Net income 21.2
 26.0
 44.8
 47.4
        
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest 
 
 
 
NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO METHODE ELECTRONICS, INC. $21.2
 $26.0
 $44.8
 $47.4
 $21.2
 $23.5
            
Amounts per common share attributable to Methode Electronics, Inc.:  
  
      
  
Basic $0.55
 $0.67
 $1.15
 $1.23
 $0.57
 $0.60
Diluted $0.54
 $0.66
 $1.15
 $1.21
 $0.57
 $0.60
Cash dividends:  
  
      
  
Common stock $0.09
 $0.09
 $0.18
 $0.18
 $0.09
 $0.09
Weighted average number of Common Shares outstanding:  
  
      
  
Basic 38,972,930
 38,694,583
 38,913,836
 38,571,015
 37,322,548
 38,904,743
Diluted 39,077,839
 39,516,436
 39,031,424
 39,038,647
 37,469,292
 39,030,798
 
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.



3


METHODE ELECTRONICS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
($ in millions)

Three Months Ended Six Months EndedThree Months Ended
October 31,
2015
 November 1, 2014 October 31, 2015 November 1, 2014July 30,
2016
 August 1, 2015
 
  
     
  
Net income$21.2
 $26.0
 $44.8
 $47.4
$21.2
 $23.5
          
Foreign currency translation adjustment(2.0) (10.8) (8.1) (16.1)(6.7) (6.1)
Comprehensive income19.2
 15.2
 36.7
 31.3
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to non-controlling interest
 
 
 
Comprehensive income attributable to Methode Electronics, Inc.$19.2
 $15.2
 $36.7
 $31.3
$14.5
 $17.4

See notes to consolidated financial statements.



4


METHODE ELECTRONICS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited)
($ in millions)
 
 Six Months Ended Three Months Ended
 October 31,
2015
 November 1,
2014
 July 30,
2016
 August 1,
2015
OPERATING ACTIVITIES  
  
  
  
Net income $44.8
 $47.4
 $21.2
 $23.5
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:  
  
  
  
Provision for depreciation 10.8
 11.2
 5.2
 5.6
Amortization of intangibles 1.2
 0.8
 0.6
 0.6
Amortization of stock awards and stock options 2.2
 2.2
 3.6
 0.4
Changes in operating assets and liabilities (9.9) 1.6
 3.8
 (11.1)
NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES 49.1
 63.2
 34.4
 19.0
        
INVESTING ACTIVITIES  
  
  
  
Purchases of property, plant and equipment (9.5) (10.8) (4.2) (5.9)
NET CASH USED IN INVESTING ACTIVITIES (9.5) (10.8) (4.2) (5.9)
        
FINANCING ACTIVITIES  
  
  
  
Taxes paid related to net share settlement of equity awards (7.6) 
 (0.3) (6.9)
Purchase of common stock (22.8) 
Proceeds from exercise of stock options 0.4
 6.3
 0.9
 
Excess tax benefit from equity-based compensation 4.0
 
Tax benefit from stock option exercises 0.3
 3.8
Cash dividends (6.9) (6.9) (3.3) (3.5)
Proceeds from borrowings 25.0
 
Repayment of borrowings (8.0) (18.0) (3.0) (3.0)
NET CASH USED IN FINANCING ACTIVITIES (15.9) (18.6) (5.4) (9.6)
        
Effect of foreign currency exchange rate changes on cash (5.2) (6.0) (3.3) (3.7)
        
INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS 18.5
 27.8
INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS 21.5
 (0.2)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 168.1
 116.4
 227.8
 168.1
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF PERIOD $186.6
 $144.2
 $249.3
 $167.9
 
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.



5

METHODE ELECTRONICS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
(Dollar amounts in millions, except per share data)





1.            BASIS OF PRESENTATION
 
Methode Electronics, Inc. was incorporated in 1946 as an Illinois corporation and reincorporated in Delaware in 1966.  As used herein, “we,” “us,” “our,” the “Company” or “Methode” means Methode Electronics, Inc. and its subsidiaries.  Our business is managed and our financial results are reported on a segment basis, with those segments being Automotive, Interface, Power Products and Other.  The condensed consolidated financial statements and related disclosures as of October 31, 2015July 30, 2016 and results of operations for the three and six months ended October 31, 2015July 30, 2016 and NovemberAugust 1, 20142015 are unaudited, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”).  The May 2, 2015April 30, 2016 condensed consolidated balance sheet was derived from audited financial statements, but does not include all disclosures required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”).  Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations.  In our opinion, these financial statements include all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring adjustments) necessary for the fair statement of the results for the interim periods.  These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements included in our Form 10-K for the year ended May 2, 2015April 30, 2016, filed with the SEC on June 25, 2015.23, 2016.  Results may vary from quarter to quarter for reasons other than seasonality.
 
2.            RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

In May 2014,March 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2016-09, Compensation-Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting. The ASU includes multiples provisions intended to simplify various aspects of the accounting for share-based payments. The amendments in this update are effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016, which is our fiscal 2018, which will begin on April 30, 2017. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the new requirements on its consolidated financial statements.

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, “RevenueRevenue from Contracts with Customers.  The core principle is that a company should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to a customer at an amount that reflects the consideration which the entity expects to receive in exchange for those goods or services. In August 2015,March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2015-14, “Revenue2016-08, Revenue from Contracts with Customers: DeferralCustomers - Principal versus Agent Considerations (Reporting revenue gross versus net), which clarifies gross versus net revenue reporting when another party is involved in the transaction. In April 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-10, Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing, which amends the revenue guidance on identifying performance obligations and accounting for licenses of intellectual property. There are two transition methods available under the Effective Date” which deferrednew standard, either full retrospective or modified retrospective. The standard will be effective for us in the effective date for all entities by one year so itfirst quarter of fiscal 2019. Earlier adoption is now effectivepermitted only for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017 and interim periods within those annual periods. We are2016. Management is still assessing the impact of adoption on its consolidated financial statements.

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02 Leases, Accounting Standard Codification (ASC ) 842, which sets out the principles for the recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of leases for both parties to a contract (i.e lessees and lessors). The new standard requires lessors to account for leases using an approach that is substantially equivalent to existing guidance for sales-type leases, direct financing leases and operating leases. The new standard requires lessees to apply a dual approach, classifying leases as either finance or operating leases based on the principle of whether or not the lease is effectively a financed purchase by the lessee. This classification will determine whether lease expense is recognize based on an effective interest method or on a straight line basis over the term of the lease. A lessee is also required to record a right-of-use asset and a lease liability for all leases with a term of greater than 12 months regardless of their classification. Leases with a term of 12 months or less will be accounted for similar to existing guidance for operating leases today. ASC 842 supersedes the previous leases standard, ASC 840 Leases. The amendments in this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, which is our fiscal 2020, beginning on April 28, 2019. We are currently evaluating the impact this guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements.

In July 2015,January 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2015-11, "Inventory (Topic 330): Simplifying the2016-01 Financial Instruments - Overall: Recognition and Measurement of Inventory". This ASUFinancial Assets and Financial Liabilities. The new standard requires an entityequity investments (except those accounted for under the equity method of accounting, or those that result in consolidation of the investee) to measure inventorybe measured at fair value of financial instruments for disclosure purposes, requires separate presentation of financial assets and financial liabilities by measurement category and form of financial assets, and eliminates the lower of costrequirement for public business entities to disclose the method(s) and net realizablesignificant assumptions used to estimate the fair value rather thanthat is required to be disclosed for financial instruments measured at the lower of cost or market.amortized cost. The guidance isamendments in this update are effective for interim and annual periodsfiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, and2017, which is to be applied prospectively. Early adoption is permitted.our
METHODE ELECTRONICS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
(Dollar amounts in millions, except per share data)


fiscal 2019, beginning on April 29, 2018. We do not believeare currently evaluating the adoption ofimpact this standardguidance will have a significant effect on our consolidated financial statements.

In MayNovember 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-7, "Fair Value Measurement: Disclosure for Investments in Certain Entities that calculates Net Asset Value per Share (or its Equivalent)".2015-17 Income Taxes (Topic 740): Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes. This amendment removes the requirement to categorize within the fair value hierarchy all investments for which fair value is measured using the net value asset per share. This new guidance is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015, with early adoption permitted. We do not believe the adoption of this standard will have a significant effect on our consolidated financial statements.
In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-03, "Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs". This ASU requires that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented insimplifies the balance sheet classification of deferred taxes. Current GAAP requires an entity to separate deferred income tax liabilities and assets into current and noncurrent amounts in a classified statement of financial position. This amendment simplifies the presentation to require that all deferred tax liabilities and assets be classified as a direct deduction fromnoncurrent on the carrying amount of that debt liability, consistent with debt discounts.balance sheet. The amendments in this ASU are effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those fiscal years. The update requires retrospective application and represents a change in accounting principle. We do not believe the adoption of this standard will have a significant effect on our consolidated financial statements.
In January 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-01, "Income Statement - Extraordinary and Unusual Items (Subtopic 225-20)", which eliminates the concept of extraordinary items. The standardguidance does not affect disclosurechange the existing requirement that only permits offsetting within a jurisdiction. The guidance for events or transactions that are unusual in nature or infrequent in their occurrence. The ASU is effective in annual periods, and interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2015. The standard allows prospective or retrospective application. Early adoption is permitted ifwas applied fromprospectively at the beginning of theour current fiscal year of adoption. We dowhich began on May 1, 2016. Prior period information was not believe the adoption of this standard will have any significant effect on our consolidated financial statements.adjusted.

In September 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-16 "BusinessBusiness Combinations Simplifying the Accounting for Measurement-Period Adjustments".Adjustments. The standard requires that an acquirer recognize measurement-period adjustments in the period in which the adjustments are determined. The income effects of such measurement-period adjustments are to be recorded in the same period’s financial statements but calculated as if the accounting had been completed as of the acquisition

6

METHODE ELECTRONICS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
(Dollar amounts in millions, except per share data)


date. The impact of measurement-period adjustments to earnings that relate to prior period financial statements are to be presented separately on the income statement or disclosed by line item. This accounting guidance isThe amendments in this update are effective for usfiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, which is our fiscal 2018, which will begin on a prospective basisApril 30, 2017. There is currently no impact to the Company expected upon adoption.

In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-11, Inventory (Topic 330): Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory. This ASU requires an entity to measure inventory at the lower of cost and net realizable value, rather than at the lower of cost or market. The amendments in this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, which is our fiscal 2018, which will begin on April 30, 2017. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact this guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements.

In May 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-7, Fair Value Measurement: Disclosure for Investments in Certain Entities that calculates net asset value per share (or its Equivalents). This amendment removes the first quarterrequirement to categorize within the fair value hierarchy all investments for which fair value is measured using the net value asset per share. This new guidance was effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2015. The adoption of this standard in fiscal 2017.2017 did not have an impact on our consolidated financial statements.     
    
3.            GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS
 
We review our goodwill and other intangible assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of these assets may not be recoverable, and at least annually in accordance with ASC No. 350, “Intangibles — Goodwill and Other”Others”.  The values assigned to goodwill and intangible assets are normally based on estimates and judgments regarding expectations for the success and life cycle of products and technologies acquired.  A severe decline in expectations could result in significant impairment charges, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
    
The following table shows the roll-forward of goodwill in the financial statements for the six months endedas of October 31, 2015July 30, 2016:
  As of October 31, 2015
       
    Power  
  Interface Products Total
Balance as of May 2, 2015 $0.7
 $1.0
 $1.7
Foreign currency translation (0.1) 
 (0.1)
Balance as of October 31, 2015 $0.6
 $1.0
 $1.6
  As of July 30, 2016
       
    Power  
  Interface Products Total
Balance as of April 30, 2016 $0.7
 $1.0
 $1.7
Foreign currency translation 
 
 
Balance as of July 30, 2016 $0.7
 $1.0
 $1.7

METHODE ELECTRONICS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
(Dollar amounts in millions, except per share data)


The following tables present details of the Company’s intangible assets:
 As of October 31, 2015 As of July 30, 2016
       Wtd. Avg.       Wtd. Avg.
       Remaining       Remaining
   Accumulated   Amortization   Accumulated   Amortization
 Gross Amortization Net Periods (Years) Gross Amortization Net Periods (Years)
Customer relationships and agreements $16.3
 $15.2
 $1.1
 8.3 $16.3
 $15.4
 $0.9
 7.5
Trade names, patents and technology licenses 25.8
 16.8
 9.0
 2.9 25.8
 18.3
 7.5
 2.2
Covenants not to compete 0.1
 0.1
 
 1.9 0.1
 0.1
 
 1.2
Total $42.2
 $32.1
 $10.1
   $42.2
 $33.8
 $8.4
  
 
 As of May 2, 2015 As of April 30, 2016
       Wtd. Avg.       Wtd. Avg.
       Remaining       Remaining
   Accumulated   Amortization   Accumulated   Amortization
 Gross Amortization Net Periods (Years) Gross Amortization Net Periods (Years)
Customer relationships and agreements $16.3
 $15.0
 $1.3
 8.8 $16.3
 $15.3
 $1.0
 7.8
Trade names, patents and technology licenses 25.8
 15.8
 10.0
 3.3 25.8
 17.9
 7.9
 2.4
Covenants not to compete 0.1
 0.1
 
 2.4 0.1
 0.1
 
 1.4
Total $42.2
 $30.9
 $11.3
   $42.2
 $33.3
 $8.9
  
 
The estimated aggregate amortization expense for the current fiscal year and each of the four succeeding fiscal years is as follows:
 
2016
$2.4
2017
$2.3
$2.3
2018
$2.2
$2.2
2019
$2.1
$2.1
2020
$0.2
$0.2
2021
$0.1
 
As of October 31, 2015July 30, 2016 and May 2, 2015April 30, 2016, the trade names, patents and technology licenses include $1.8 million of trade names that are not subject to amortization.

7

METHODE ELECTRONICS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
(Dollar amounts in millions, except per share data)


4.            INCOME TAXES
 
At May 2, 2015, we recorded a deferred tax benefit of $7.2 million related to the release of a foreign valuation allowance and a $1.4 million deferred tax benefit related to the release of our state valuation allowance. The Company evaluated all available positive and negative evidence, including past operating results and projection of future taxable income and determined it is more likely than not that expected future taxable income will be sufficient to utilize substantially all of our foreign, federal and USU.S. state net deferred tax assets. The Company maintained a valuation allowance of $1.2$1.3 million at October 31, 2015July 30, 2016 and May 2, 2015April 30, 2016 related to certain state and federal net operating loss carryovers and expects to continue to maintain this allowance until we determine that these deferred tax assets are more likely than not realizable.

At October 31, 2015,July 30, 2016, we had available $2.1 million of federal and $80.6$85.8 million of state net operating loss carry forwards (having a tax benefit of $0.7 million and $3.8$3.7 million, respectively) and $3.7$0.9 million of foreign tax credit carry forwards. If unused, the U.S. federal net operating loss carry forwards will expire in the fiscal years 2018 through 2031. The state net operating loss carry forwards will expire in the fiscal years 20162017 through 2035.2036. The foreign tax credits will expire in the fiscal years 2023 through 2024.2025.

The tax laws of Malta provide for investment tax credits of 30% of certain qualified expenditures. Unused credits of $16.1$14.4 million as of October 31, 2015July 30, 2016 can be carried forward indefinitely. We record investment tax credits using the "flow through" method.

The Company recognized an income tax provision of $5.7$5.5 million and $8.7$7.4 million for the three months ended October 31,July 30, 2016 and August 1, 2015, and November 1, 2014, respectively. The Company's effective tax rate was 21.2%20.6% and 25.1%23.9% for the three months ended October 31,July 30, 2016 and August 1, 2015, and November 1, 2014, respectively. The Company recognized an income tax provision of $13.1 million and $15.7 million for the six months ended October 31, 2015 and November 1, 2014, respectively. The Company's effective tax rate was 22.7% and 24.9% for the six months ended October 31, 2015 and November 1, 2014, respectively. The income tax provision for both the three and six months ended October 31,July 30, 2016 and August 1, 2015 and November 1, 2014 is lower than the U.S. statutory rate primarily due to foreign investment tax credits and foreign operations with lower statutory rates.

METHODE ELECTRONICS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
(Dollar amounts in millions, except per share data)


We record interest and penalties accrued related to the unrecognized tax benefits in the provision for income taxes.  We had approximately $0.1 million accrued at October 31, 2015July 30, 2016 for the payment of interest and penalties.  The total unrecognized tax benefit as of October 31, 2015July 30, 2016 was $0.9$1.2 million. We recorded an unrecognized tax benefit of $0.1 million in the first half of fiscal 2016. There have been no material changes to the accrued amounts in the current fiscal year.
  
The Company and all of its domestic subsidiaries file income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various states.  Our foreign subsidiaries file income tax returns in certain foreign jurisdictions since they have operations outside the U.S.  The Companyfederal and its subsidiaries are generally no longer subject to U.S. federal, state and local examinations by tax authoritiesstatute of limitations remains open for all years exceptthe fiscal 2014, 2013, 2012 and 2011.year ended April 27, 2013.
 

8

METHODE ELECTRONICS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
(Dollar amounts in millions, except per share data)



5.            COMMON STOCK AND STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION
 
During the quarter ended October 31, 2015,In fiscal 2016, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors authorized a new long-term incentive program for key employees consisting of performance-based Restricted Stock Awards (“RSAs”) and time-based Restricted Stock Units (“RSUs”). On the first quarter of fiscal 2017, the Compensation Committee awarded RSAs and RSUs to our new Chief Financial officer under the long term incentive program. He is eligible to earn 24,000 RSA shares at threshold performance, 48,000 shares at target performance and 72,000 shares for maximum performance. In addition, he was awarded 32,000 RSUs.

TheIn the aggregate, the number of RSAs earned will vary based on performance relative to established goals for fiscal 2020 adjusted EBITDA, with 50% of the target shares earned for threshold performance (representing 342,000411,000 shares), 100% of the target shares earned for target performance (representing 684,000822,000 shares) and 150% of the target shares earned for maximum performance (representing 1,026,0001,233,000 shares).

At the target level of performance, the expected expense for the RSAs over the five-year period will be $21.8$24.8 million. During the quarterthree months ended October 31, 2015,July 30, 2016, the Company recorded $0.4$1.3 million in compensation expense related to the RSA’s.RSA's. There was no compensation expense recorded for the RSA's for the three months ended August 1, 2015.
    
As of October 31, 2015,July 30, 2016, the Company is recording the RSA compensation expense based on target performance. In future periods, if management makes a determination that exceeding the target will likely be exceededis probable for fiscal 2020, a catch-up adjustment to compensation expense will be recorded in that period. This amountIn addition, if management makes a determination that it is probable of not exceeding the target for fiscal 2020, a reversal of expense will be recorded in that period. These amounts could be material to the financial statements.

The Company also granted 516,000608,000 RSU's to key employees. The RSU’s are subject to a five-year vesting period, with 30% vesting on on each of April 28, 2018 and April 27, 2019 and 40% vesting on May 2, 2020. The total expense for the RSU's is expected to be $16.5$18.5 million through 2020. During the quarterthree months ended October 31, 2015,July 30, 2016, the Company recorded $0.4$1.3 million of compensation expense related to the RSU's. There was no compensation expense recorded for the RSU's for the three months ended August 1, 2015.

During the first quarter of fiscal 2017, the Company issued 27,000 shares of common stock to our independent directors, all of which vested immediately upon grant. We recorded $1.0 million of compensation expense related to these shares during the three months ended July 30, 2016.

METHODE ELECTRONICS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
(Dollar amounts in millions, except per share data)


6.            NET INCOME PER SHARE
 
Basic net income per share is calculated by dividing net income attributable to Methode shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the applicable period.  Diluted net income per share is calculated after adjusting the denominator of the basic net income per share calculation for the effect of all potentially dilutive stock compensation awards outstanding during the period.
 
The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted net income per share:
 
 Three Months Ended Six Months Ended Three Months Ended 
 October 31,
2015
 November 1,
2014
 October 31,
2015
 November 1,
2014
 July 30,
2016
 August 1,
2015
 
Numerator - net income attributable to Methode Electronics, Inc. $21.2
 $26.0
 $44.8
 $47.4
 $21.2
 $23.5
 
Denominator: 
 
     
 
 
Denominator for basic net income per share-weighted average shares outstanding and vested/unissued restricted stock awards 38,972,930
 38,694,583
 38,913,836
 38,571,015
 37,322,548
 38,904,743
 
Dilutive potential common shares-employee and director stock options, restricted stock awards and restricted stock units 104,909
 821,853
 117,588
 467,632
 146,744
 126,055
 
Denominator for diluted net income per share 39,077,839
 39,516,436
 39,031,424
 39,038,647
 37,469,292
 39,030,798
 
             
Net income per share:  
  
      
  
 
Basic $0.55
 $0.67
 $1.15
 $1.23
 $0.57
 $0.60
 
Diluted $0.54
 $0.66
 $1.15
 $1.21
 $0.57
 $0.60
 
 
For the three months and six months ended October 31, 2015 and November 1, 2014,July 30, 2016, options to purchase 158,500138,500 shares have been excluded in the computation of diluted net income per share because the exercise price was greater than the average market price for those periods, and therefore, would have been anti-dilutive. Restricted stock awardsIn addition, 158,500 shares have been excluded because the exercise price was greater than the average market price for 684,000

9

METHODE ELECTRONICS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
(Dollar amounts in millions, except per share data)


the three months ended August 1, 2015, as those shares would have been anti-dilutive as well. RSAs for 822,000 shares have been excluded in the computation of diluted net income per share for both the three months and six months ended October 31, 2015,July 30, 2016, as these awards are contingent on the Company's full year performance in fiscal 2020. Restricted stock awards for 700,000 shares have been excluded in the computation of diluted net income per share for both the three months and six months ended November 1, 2014, as these awards were contingent on the Company's full year performance in fiscal 2015.

7.            SEGMENT INFORMATION
 
We are a global manufacturer of component and subsystem devices.  We design, manufacture and market devices employing electrical, electronic, wireless, sensing and optical technologies.  Our components are found in the primary end markets of the automotive, appliance, communications (including information processing and storage, networking equipment, wireless and terrestrial voice/data systems), aerospace, rail and other transportation industries, and the consumer and industrial equipment markets.
 
ASC No. 280, “Segment Reporting”, establishes annual and interim reporting standards for an enterprise’s operating segments and related disclosures about its products, services, geographic areas and major customers. An operating segment is defined as a component of an enterprise that engages in business activities from which it may earn revenues and incur expenses, and about which separate financial information is regularly evaluated by the Chief Operating Decision Maker (“CODM”) in deciding how to allocate resources.  The CODM, as defined by ASC No. 280, is the Company’s President and Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”).

We have multiple operating segments that are aggregated in four reportable segments. Those segments are Automotive, Interface, Power Products and Other.

The Automotive segment supplies electronic and electromechanicalelectro-mechanical devices and related products to automobile Original Equipment Manufacturers ("OEMs"), either directly or through their tiered suppliers. Our products include controlintegrated
METHODE ELECTRONICS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
(Dollar amounts in millions, except per share data)


center consoles, hidden switches, for electrical powerergonomic switches, transmission lead frames and signals, connectors for electrical devices, integrated control components, switchessensors which incorporate magneto-elastic sensing and sensorsother technologies that monitor the operation or status of a component or system, and packaging of electrical components as well as design and manufacture of magnetic torque sensing products.system.
 
The Interface segment provides a variety of copper and fiber-optic interconnectinterface and interface solutions for the aerospace, appliance, commercial food service, computer, construction, consumer, material handling, medical, military, mining, networking, point of sales, storage, and telecommunications markets.  Solutions include conductive polymers, connectors, custom cable assemblies, industrial safety radio remote controls, optical and copper transceivers, personal computer and express card packaging and terminators, solid-state field effect interface panels, and thick film inks.consumer touch panels. Services include the design and installation of fiber optic and copper infrastructure systems, and manufacturing active and passive optical components.
 
The Power Products segment manufactures braided flexible cables, current-carrying laminated bus devices, custom power-product assemblies, such as our PowerRail solution, high-current low voltage flexible power cabling systems and powder coated bus bars that are used in various markets and applications, including aerospace, computers, industrial and power conversion, military, telecommunications, and transportation.
 
The Other segment includes medical devices, inverters and battery systems and insulated gate bipolar transistor solutions. Our medical devices business includes Dabir Surfaces which is our surface support technology aimed at pressure ulcer prevention. Methode is developing the technology for use by patients who are immobilized or otherwise at risk for pressure ulcers, including patients undergoing long-duration surgical procedures.
 
The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies in our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended May 2, 2015April 30, 2016.  We allocate resources to segments based on operating income. Transfers between segments are recorded using internal transfer prices set by us.


10

METHODE ELECTRONICS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
(Dollar amounts in millions, except per share data)


 Three Months Ended October 31, 2015 Three Months Ended July 30, 2016
 Automotive Interface 
Power
Products
 Other Eliminations/Corporate Consolidated Automotive Interface 
Power
Products
 Other Eliminations/Corporate Consolidated
Net sales $163.1
 $36.0
 $11.8
 $
 $(2.5) $208.4
 $148.6
 $33.1
 $12.1
 $0.4
 $(2.4) $191.8
Transfers between segments (2.3) (0.2) 
 
 2.5
 
 (1.5) (0.2) (0.1) (0.3) 2.2
 0.1
Net sales to unaffiliated customers $160.8
 $35.8
 $11.8
 $
 $
 $208.4
 $147.1
 $32.9
 $12.0
 $0.1
 $(0.2) $191.9
                        
Income (loss) from operations $35.1
 $1.4
 $0.5
 $(1.9) $(8.7) $26.4
 $36.1
 $(0.7) $2.5
 $(2.3) $(8.9) $26.7
Interest income, net           (0.3)           
Other income, net           (0.2)           
Income before income taxes           $26.9
           $26.7
 
 Three Months Ended November 1, 2014 Three Months Ended August 1, 2015
 Automotive Interface 
Power
Products
 Other Eliminations/Corporate Consolidated Automotive Interface 
Power
Products
 Other Eliminations/Corporate Consolidated
Net sales $167.1
 $41.1
 $21.7
 $1.7
 $(1.9) $229.7
 $154.9
 $34.1
 $16.5
 $0.1
 $(2.3) $203.3
Transfers between segments (1.2) (0.5) (0.1) (0.1) 1.9
 
 (1.8) (0.4) 
 (0.1) 2.3
 
Net sales to unaffiliated customers $165.9
 $40.6
 $21.6
 $1.6
 $
 $229.7
 $153.1
 $33.7
 $16.5
 $
 $
 $203.3
                        
Income/(loss) from operations $35.0
 $4.8
 $5.6
 $(1.0) $(9.6) $34.8
 $35.9
 $0.7
 $3.1
 $(2.3) $(7.0) $30.4
Interest income, net           (0.1)           (0.2)
Other expense, net           0.2
Other income, net           (0.3)
Income before income taxes           $34.7
           $30.9

  Six Months Ended October 31, 2015
  Automotive Interface 
Power
Products
 Other Eliminations/Corporate Consolidated
Net sales $317.9
 $70.1
 $28.3
 $0.1
 $(4.7) $411.7
Transfers between segments (4.1) (0.5) 
 (0.1) 4.7
 
Net sales to unaffiliated customers $313.8
 $69.6
 $28.3
 $
 $
 $411.7
             
Income/(loss) from operations $71.1
 $2.1
 $3.5
 $(4.1) $(15.7) $56.9
Interest income, net           (0.5)
Other income, net           (0.5)
Income before income taxes           $57.9

  Six Months Ended November 1, 2014
  Automotive Interface 
Power
Products
 Other Eliminations/Corporate Consolidated
Net sales $323.9
 $85.6
 $38.0
 $3.4
 $(3.1) $447.8
Transfers between segments (1.6) (1.1) (0.2) (0.1) 3.0
 
Net sales to unaffiliated customers $322.3
 $84.5
 $37.8
 $3.3
 $(0.1) $447.8
             
Income/(loss) from operations $62.7
 $11.9
 $8.6
 $(3.1) $(17.1) $63.0
Interest income, net           (0.2)
Other expense, net           0.1
Income before income taxes           $63.1

 

11

METHODE ELECTRONICS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
(Dollar amounts in millions, except per share data)


8.          CONTINGENCIES

Certain litigation arising in the normal course of business is pending against us.  We are from time to time subject to various legal actions and claims incidental to our business, including those arising out of alleged defects, breach of contracts, employment-related matters, environmental matters and environmentalintellectual property matters.  We consider insurance coverage and third-party indemnification when determining required accruals for pending litigation and claims.  Although the outcome of potential legal actions and claims cannot be determined, it is our opinion, based on the information available, that we have adequate reserves for these liabilities.

Hetronic Germany-GmbH Matters    

For several years, Hetronic Germany-GmbH and Hydronic-Steuersysteme-GmbH (the “Fuchs companies”) served as our distributors for Germany, Austria and other central and eastern European countries pursuant to their respective intellectual property licenses and distribution and assembly agreements. We became aware that the Fuchs companies and their managing director, Albert Fuchs, had materially violated those agreements. As a result, we terminated all of our agreements with the Fuchs companies. On June 20, 2014, we filed a lawsuit against the Fuchs companies in the Federal District Court for the Western District of Oklahoma alleging material breaches of the distribution and assembly agreements seeking damages, as well as various forms of injunctive relief. The defendants have filed counterclaims alleging breach of contract, interference with business relations and business slander. On April 2, 2015, we amended our complaint against the Fuchs companies to add additional unfair competition and Lanham Act claims and to add additional affiliated parties. The Court deniedAs of July 30, 2016, the defendants’ motions to dismiss, although some of the defendants have filed a motion to reconsider that denial. Discovery has commencedmatter remains in the case and is ongoing. discovery stage.

9.          PRE-PRODUCTION COSTS RELATED TO LONG-TERM SUPPLY ARRANGEMENTS
 
We incur pre-production tooling costs related to certain products produced for our customers under long-term supply agreements.  We had $9.4$13.2 million and $10.5$9.5 million as of October 31, 2015July 30, 2016 and May 2, 2015,April 30, 2016, respectively, of pre-production tooling costs related to customer-owned tools for which reimbursement is contractually guaranteed by the customer or for which the customer has provided a non-cancelable right to use the tooling.  Engineering, testing and other costs incurred
in the design and development of production parts are expensed as incurred, unless the costs are reimbursable, as specified in a
customer contract. We had $7.5 million and $8.0 million as of July 30, 2016 and April 30, 2016, respectively, of Company owned pre-production tooling, which is capitalized within property, plant and equipment.
 
10.          DEBT AND CREDIT AGREEMENT
 
We are party to an Amended and Restated Credit Agreement with Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent, and certain other financial institutions, which has a maturity of September 21, 2017. The credit facility is in the aggregate principal amount of $100.0 million, with an option to increase the principal amount by an additional $50.0 million, subject to customary conditions and approval of the lender(s) providing new commitment(s). The credit facility provides for variable rates of interest based on the type of borrowing and the Company's debt to EBITDA financial ratio. The Amended and Restated Credit Agreement is guaranteed by certain of our U.S. subsidiaries. At October 31, 2015,July 30, 2016, the interest rate on the credit facility was 1.5% plus LIBOR and we were in compliance with the covenants of the agreement. During the first sixthree months of fiscal 2016,2017, we had no borrowings of $25.0 million and payments of $8.2$3.3 million, which includes interest of $0.2$0.3 million, under this credit facility. As of October 31, 2015,July 30, 2016, there were outstanding balances against the credit facility of $22.0$54.0 million.  There was $78.0$46.0 million available to borrow under the credit facility as of October 31, 2015,July 30, 2016, which does not include the option to increase the principal amount. We believe the fair value approximates the carrying amount as of October 31, 2015.July 30, 2016.


Item 2.  Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
 
Cautionary Statement
 
Certain statements in this report are forward-looking statements that are subject to certain risks and uncertainties.  We undertake no duty to update any such forward-looking statements to conform to actual results or changes in our expectations.  Our business is highly dependent upon two large automotive customers and specific makes and models of automobiles.vehicles.  Our results will be subject to many of the same risks that apply to the automotive, appliance, computer and communications industries, such as general economic conditions, interest rate fluctuations, consumer spending patterns and technological changes.   Other factors which may result in materially different results for future periods include the following risk factors. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known or that our management currently believe to be insignificant may also adversely affect our financial condition or results of operations.  These risk factors should be considered in connection with evaluating the forward-looking statements contained in this report because these factors could cause our actual results and condition to differ materially from those projected in forward-looking statements.  The forward-looking statements in this report are subject to the safe harbor protection provided under the securities laws and are made as of the date of this report.

Our business is highly dependent on two large automotive customers. If we were to lose either of these customers or experienced a significant decline in the volume or price of products purchased by these customers, or if either of the customers declare bankruptcy, our future results could be adversely affected.

Because we derive a substantial portion of our revenues from customers in the automotive, appliance, computer and communications industries, we are susceptible to trends and factors affecting those industries.

Our ability to market our automotive products is subject to a lengthy sales cycle, which requires significant investment prior to significant sales revenues, and there is no assurance that our products will be implemented in any particular vehicle.

12

TableOur inability to effectively manage the timing, volume, quality and cost of Contentsnew program launches could adversely affect our financial performance.


We are subject to continuing pressure to lower our prices.

A significant fluctuation between the U.S. dollar and other currencies could adversely impact our operating results.

Our inability to effectively manage the timing, volume, quality and cost of new program launches could adversely affect our financial performance.

Disruption of our supply chain could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

We are dependent on the availability and price of materials.

A significant portion of our business activities are conducted in foreign countries, exposing us to additional risks that may not exist in the United States.

Our Dabir Surface medical device products are emerging technologies. Our ability to successfully market and sell these products will depend on acceptance by the medical community.

We have significant operations in Europe which may be adversely impacted by the continued economic challenges in Europe, including the impact of the referendum in the United Kingdom (“U.K”) approving the exit of the U.K. from the European Union.

Disruption of our supply chain could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Changes in our effective tax rate may harm our results of operations.

Our gross margins are subject to fluctuations due to many factors such as geographical and vertical market pricing mix, changes in the mix of our prototyping and production-based business, competitive pricing dynamics and customer mix, pricing concessions, various manufacturing cost variables including product yields, package and assembly costs and provisions for obsolete inventory and the absorption of manufacturing overhead and any significant decrease in our gross margins could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

We may be required to recognize impairment charges.

We may be unable to keep pace with rapid technological changes, which could adversely affect our business.

Our technology-based business and the markets in which we operate are highly competitive. If we are unable to compete effectively, our sales could decline.

Any decision to strategically divest one or more current businesses or our inability to capitalize on prior or future acquisitions may adversely affect our business.

Products we manufacture may contain design or manufacturing defects that could result in reduced demand for our products or services, costs associated with recalls, or liability claims against us.

If we are unable to protect our intellectual property or we infringe, or are alleged to infringe, on another person’s intellectual property, our business, financial condition and operating results could be materially adversely affected.

We currently have a significant amount of our cash located outside the U.S.

Should a catastrophic event or other significant business interruption occur at any of our facilities, we could face significant reconstruction or remediation costs, penalties, third party liability and loss of production capacity, which could adversely affect our business.

We are dependent on the availability and price of materials.

Our gross margins are subject to fluctuations due to many factors such as geographical and vertical market pricing mix, pricing concessions and various manufacturing cost variables.

We currently have a significant amount of our cash located outside the U.S.

We may be unable to keep pace with rapid technological changes, which could adversely affect our business.

Our information technology (“IT”) systems could be breached.

Products we manufacture may contain design or manufacturing defects that could result in reduced demand for our products or services, costs associated with recalls, or liability claims against us.

Our technology-based business and the markets in which we operate are highly competitive. If we are unable to compete effectively, our sales could decline.

If we are unable to protect our intellectual property or we infringe, or are alleged to infringe, on another person’s intellectual property, our business, financial condition and operating results could be materially adversely affected.

Any decision to strategically divest one or more current businesses or our inability to capitalize on prior or future acquisitions may adversely affect our business.

We may be required to recognize additional impairment charges.

Regulations related to the use of conflict-free minerals may increase our costs and expenses, and an inability to certify that our products are conflict-free may adversely affect customer relationships.

Any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results, developments and business decisions may differ materially from those foreseen in such forward-looking statements.  These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of the report, press release, statement, document, webcast or oral discussion in which they are made.  We do not intend to update any forward-looking statements, all of which are expressly qualified by the foregoing.  See Part I — Item 1A, Risk Factors of our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended May 2, 2015,April 30, 2016, for a further discussion regarding some of the reasons that actual results may be materially different from those we anticipate.

13

Table of Contents

 
Overview
 
We are a global manufacturer of component and subsystem devices with manufacturing, design and testing facilities in China, Egypt, Germany, India, Italy, Lebanon, Malta, Mexico, Singapore, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States. WeOur primary manufacturing locations are a global designerlocated in Shanghai, China; Cairo, Egypt; Mriehel, Malta; and manufacturer of electronic and electro-mechanical devices.Monterrey, Mexico. We design, manufacture and market devices employing electrical, radio remote control, electronic, wireless, sensing and optical technologies. Our business is managed on a segment basis, with those segments being Automotive, Interface, Power Products and Other.  For more information regarding the business and products of these segments, see “Item 1. Business.” of our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended May 2, 2015April 30, 2016.
 
Our components are found in the primary end markets of the aerospace, appliance, automotive, construction, consumer and industrial equipment markets, communications (including information processing and storage, networking equipment, wireless and terrestrial voice/data systems), rail and other transportation industries.
 
Plan to Repurchase Common Stock    

In September 2015, the Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $100 million of the Company's outstanding common stock through September 1, 2017. The Company has purchased $22.8 million1,997,298 shares of outstanding common stock for $62.0 million as of October 31, 2015.July 30, 2016. The Company did not purchase shares during the first quarter of fiscal 2017. The program may be suspended or terminated at any time.

Sale of Trace Laboratories    

On February 3, 2015, we sold our 100% ownership interest in our Trace Laboratories businesses for $11.7 million,
including $0.5 million held in escrow which is expected to be received in fiscal 2016. The businesses, located in Maryland and
Illinois, provided services for qualification testing and certification, and analysis of electronic and optical components. The net
assets of the businesses had a book value of $4.0 million. We recorded a pre-tax gain of $7.7 million, related to the sale of the net assets in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015.

Hetronic Germany-GmbHLitigation Matters    

For several years, Hetronic Germany-GmbH and Hydronic-Steuersysteme-GmbH (the “Fuchs companies”) served as our distributors for Germany, Austria and other central and eastern European countries pursuant to their respective intellectual property licenses and distribution and assembly agreements. We became aware that the Fuchs companies and their managing director, Albert Fuchs, had materially violated those agreements. As a result, we terminated all of our agreements with the Fuchs companies. On June 20, 2014, we filed a lawsuit against the Fuchs companies in the Federal District Court for the

Western District of Oklahoma alleging material breaches of the distribution and assembly agreements seeking damages, as well as various forms of injunctive relief. The defendants have filed counterclaims alleging breach of contract, interference with business relations and business slander. On April 2, 2015, we amended our complaint against the Fuchs companies to add additional unfair competition and Lanham Act claims and to add additional affiliated parties. The Court deniedAs of July 30, 2016, the defendants’ motions to dismiss, although some of the defendants have filed a motion to reconsider that denial. Discovery has commencedmatter remains in the case and is ongoing.discovery stage.


We incurred Hetronic related legal fees of $4.3 million and $1.2 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2017 and the first quarter of fiscal 2016, respectively. We incurred total fiscal year Hetronic related legal fees of $9.9 million and $3.1 million in fiscal 2016 and fiscal 2015, respectively. These amounts are included in the selling and administrative expenses in the Interface segment.
14

Table of Contents

Results of Operations for the Three Months Ended October 31, 2015July 30, 2016 as Compared to the Three Months Ended NovemberAugust 1, 20142015
 
Consolidated Results
 
Below is a table summarizing results for the three months ended:
($ in millions)
(“N/M” equals not meaningful) 
 October 31,
2015
 November 1,
2014
 Net Change Net Change July 30,
2016
 August 1,
2015
 Net Change Net Change
Net sales $208.4
 $229.7
 $(21.3) (9.3)% $191.9
 $203.3
 $(11.4) (5.6)%
                
Cost of products sold 157.5
 169.5
 (12.0) (7.1)% 137.8
 149.7
 (11.9) (7.9)%
                
Gross profit 50.9
 60.2
 (9.3) (15.4)% 54.1
 53.6
 0.5
 0.9 %
                
Selling and administrative expenses 24.5
 25.4
 (0.9) (3.5)% 27.4
 23.2
 4.2
 18.1 %
Interest income, net (0.3) (0.1) (0.2) N/M 
 (0.2) 0.2
 N/M
Other (income)/expense, net (0.2) 0.2
 (0.4) N/M
Other income, net 
 (0.3) 0.3
 N/M
Income tax expense 5.7
 8.7
 (3.0) (34.5)% 5.5
 7.4
 (1.9) (25.7)%
Net income attributable to Methode Electronics, Inc. $21.2
 $26.0
 $(4.8) (18.5)% $21.2
 $23.5
 $(2.3) (9.8)%
                
Percent of sales: October 31,
2015
 November 1,
2014
     July 30,
2016
 August 1,
2015
    
Net sales 100.0 % 100.0 %     100.0% 100.0 %    
Cost of products sold 75.6 % 73.8 %     71.8% 73.6 %    
Gross margins 24.4 % 26.2 %     28.2% 26.4 %    
Selling and administrative expenses 11.8 % 11.1 %     14.3% 11.4 %    
Interest income, net (0.1)%  %     % (0.1)%    
Other (income)/expense, net (0.1)% 0.1 %    
Other income, net % (0.1)%    
Income tax expense 2.7 % 3.8 %     2.9% 3.6 %    
Net income attributable to Methode Electronics, Inc. 10.2 % 11.3 %     11.0% 11.6 %    
 
Net Sales.  Consolidated net sales decreased $21.311.4 million, or 9.3%5.6%, to $208.4191.9 million for the three months ended October 31, 2015July 30, 2016, from $229.7203.3 million for the three months ended NovemberAugust 1, 20142015.  The Automotive segment net sales decreased $5.16.0 million, or 3.1%3.9%, to $160.8$147.1 million for the secondfirst quarter of fiscal 2017, from $153.1 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2016, from $165.9 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2015, primarily due to lower sales volumes of the Ford Center Console program,transmission lead-frame assemblies and ignition and steering wheel switch products and unfavorable currency rate fluctuations and pricing concessions on certain products, partially offset by increased sales volumes for the GM Center Console program and transmission lead-frame assemblies.fluctuations. The Interface segment net sales decreased $4.8$0.8 million, or 2.4%, or 11.8%,to $32.9 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2017, compared to $35.833.7 million for the secondfirst quarter of fiscal 2016, compared to $40.6 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2015, due to lower sales volumes of appliance, data solutions products and radio remote control products. The Power Products segment net sales decreased $9.8$4.5 million, or 45.4%27.3%, to $11.8$12.0 million for the secondfirst quarter of fiscal 2016,2017, compared to $21.6$16.5 million for the secondfirst quarter of fiscal 20152016, primarily due to lower sales volumes for datacom, cabling and busbar products.  The Other segment had minimal sales in the second quarter of fiscal 2016 because the Company sold its Trace Laboratories operating units in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015 and the remaining operating units in this segment, medical devices, inverters and battery systems, had minimal net sales in the second quarter of fiscal 2016 or the second quarter of fiscal 2015. Translation of foreign operations net

sales for the three months ended October 31, 2015July 30, 2016 decreased reported net sales by $4.6$0.7 million, or 2.2%0.4%, due to average currency rate fluctuations in the secondfirst quarter of fiscal 2016,2017, compared to the secondfirst quarter of fiscal 2015,2016, primarily due to the strengthening of the U.S. dollar compared to the euro.Chinese yuan.
 
Cost of Products Sold.  Consolidated cost of products sold decreased $12.011.9 million, or 7.1%7.9%, to $157.5137.8 million for the three months ended October 31, 2015July 30, 2016, compared to $169.5149.7 million for the three months ended NovemberAugust 1, 20142015.  Consolidated cost of products sold as a percentage of net sales was 75.6%71.8% for the secondfirst quarter of fiscal 2017, compared to 73.6% for the first quarter of fiscal 2016, compared to

15

Table of Contents

73.8% for the second quarter of fiscal 2015.  The Automotive segment experienced a decrease in costwas favorably impacted by both commodity pricing adjustments of products sold as a percentage$1.0 million and $1.0 million for the reversal of net sales substantially dueaccruals related to favorablecustomer commercial issues resolved during the quarter. The Automotive, Interface and Power Products segments were all favorably impacted by commodity pricing of raw materials and favorable currency impact on both the purchase of certain raw materialsmaterial purchases and labor costs in our foreign operations. The cost of products sold as a percentage of sales was also favorably impacted in the second quarter of fiscal 2016 due to the ramp-up of production in our lower cost manufacturing operation in Egypt.costs. The Interface segment experiencedwas impacted by a decrease in cost of products sold as a percentage of net sales primarily due tofavorable sales mix within the segment as well as raw material cost and direct labor cost reductions in ourof appliance reporting unit, partially offset with manufacturing inefficiencies due to lower sales volumes.products. The Power Products segment experienced an increase infavorable cost of productsgoods sold as a percentage of sales due to manufacturing inefficiencies related to decreased sales volumes.implemented overhead cost reductions in the U.S. and China.
 
Gross Profit. Consolidated gross profit decreased $9.3increased $0.5 million, or 15.4%0.9%, to $50.9$54.1 million for the three months ended October 31, 2015,July 30, 2016, as compared to $60.253.6 million for the three months ended NovemberAugust 1, 20142015.  Gross margins as a percentage of net sales decreasedincreased to 24.4%28.2% for the three months ended October 31, 2015July 30, 2016, compared to 26.2%26.4% for the three months ended NovemberAugust 1, 20142015.  The decreaseincrease is primarily due to manufacturing inefficienciesthe favorable impact of commodity pricing adjustments and the one-time reversal of accruals related to decreased sales volumes for the Power Products segments, partially offset byresolved customer commercial issues. In addition, gross margins increased due to favorable commodity pricing and the favorable currency impact on the purchase of certain raw materialsmaterial purchases and labor costs in our foreign operations.as well as overhead cost reductions.
 
Selling and Administrative Expenses.  Selling and administrative expenses decreasedincreased by $0.94.2 million, or 3.5%18.1%, to $24.527.4 million for the three months ended October 31, 2015July 30, 2016, compared to $25.423.2 million for the three months ended November��August 1, 20142015.  Selling and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales increased to 11.8%14.3% for the three months ended October 31, 2015July 30, 2016 from 11.1%11.4% for the three months ended NovemberAugust 1, 20142015. In the secondfirst quarter of fiscal 2016, bonus2017, expenses increased for stock award amortization expense decreased by $4.4$3.2 million, partially offset by increased expenses for legal and other professional fees of $2.1by $2.9 million, wages, benefits and stock award compensationpartially offset by lower bonus expense of $0.7 million, severance expense of $0.5$1.2 million and amortization expenselower travel, advertising and other general expenses of $0.2$0.7 million.
 
Interest Income, Net.  InterestThere was no interest income, net was $0.3for the three months ended July 30, 2016, compared to $0.2 million for the three months ended October 31,August 1, 2015, compared. The decrease primarily relates to $0.1 millionincreased debt levels.

Other Income, Net. There was no other income, net for the three months ended November 1, 2014. The increase is primarily due to decreased debt levels during fiscalJuly 30, 2016 as compared to fiscal 2015.

Other (Income)/Expense, Net. Other (income)/expense, net increased $0.4 million, to income of $0.2 million for the three months ended October 31, 2015, compared to an expense of $0.20.3 million for the three months ended NovemberAugust 1, 20142015. All amounts for both the secondfirst quarter of fiscal 20162017 and the second quarter of fiscal 2015, relate to currency rate fluctuations. The functional currencies of these operations are the British pound, Chinese yuan, Euro, Indian rupee, Mexican peso, Singapore dollar and Swiss franc. Some foreign operations have transactions denominated in currencies other than their functional currencies, primarily sales in U.S. dollars and Euros, creating exchange rate sensitivities.

Income Tax Expense.  Income tax expense decreased $3.0 million, or 34.5%, to $5.7 million for the three months ended October 31, 2015, compared to $8.7 million for the three months ended November 1, 2014.  The Company's effective tax rate decreased to 21.2% in the second quarter of fiscal 2016, compared to 25.1% in the second quarter quarter of fiscal 2015.
Net Income Attributable to Methode Electronics, Inc.  Net income attributable to Methode Electronics, Inc. decreased $4.8 million, or 18.5%, to $21.2 million for the three months ended October 31, 2015, compared to $26.0 million for the three months ended November 1, 2014, primarily due to lower sales volumes, manufacturing inefficiencies due to lower sales volumes, no sales or earnings due to the sale of Trace Laboratories, partially offset with favorable selling and administrative expenses, favorable currency rates fluctuations and lower income tax expense.


16

Table of Contents

Operating Segments
Automotive Segment Results
Below is a table summarizing results for the three months ended:
($ in millions)
  October 31,
2015
 November 1,
2014
 Net Change Net Change
Net sales $160.8
 $165.9
 $(5.1) (3.1)%
         
Cost of products sold 117.6
 122.9
 (5.3) (4.3)%
         
Gross profit 43.2
 43.0
 0.2
 0.5 %
         
Selling and administrative expenses 8.1
 8.0
 0.1
 1.3 %
         
Income from operations $35.1
 $35.0
 $0.1
 0.3 %
         
Percent of sales: October 31,
2015
 November 1,
2014
    
Net sales 100.0% 100.0%    
Cost of products sold 73.1% 74.1%    
Gross margins 26.9% 25.9%    
Selling and administrative expenses 5.0% 4.8%    
Income from operations 21.8% 21.1%    
Net Sales.  Automotive segment net sales decreased $5.1 million, or 3.1%, to $160.8 million for the three months ended October 31, 2015, from $165.9 million for the three months ended November 1, 2014.  Net sales decreased in North America by $10.1 million, or 9.8%, to $92.8 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2016, compared to $102.9 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2015, primarily due to lower sales volumes of the Ford Center Console program which substantially completed production at the end of fiscal 2015. Sales of the GM Center Console program increased due to increased volumes, partially offset with pricing concessions on certain products. In addition, sales volumes increased for our transmission lead-frame assemblies in the second quarter of fiscal 2016 as compared to the second quarter of fiscal 2015. Net sales increased in Europe by $1.5 million, or 3.8%, to $41.5 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2016, compared to $40.0 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2015, primarily due to higher tooling sales and increased sales volumes for hidden switch products, partially offset by unfavorable currency rate fluctuations. Net sales in Asia increased $3.5 million, or 15.2%, to $26.5 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2016, compared to $23.0 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2015, primarily due to higher sales volumes for our transmission lead-frame assemblies, linear position sensor products and interior lighting products, partially offset with lower sales volumes of steering angle sensor products. Translation of foreign operations net sales for the three months ended October 31, 2015 decreased reported net sales by $4.6 million, or 2.8%, due to average currency rates in the second quarter of fiscal 2016, compared to the average currency rates in the second quarter of fiscal 2015, primarily due to the strengthening of the U.S. dollar as compared to the euro.

Cost of Products Sold.  Automotive segment cost of products sold decreased $5.3 million, or 4.3%, to $117.6 million for the three months ended October 31, 2015, compared to $122.9 million for the three months ended November 1, 2014.  The Automotive segment cost of products sold as a percentage of net sales decreased to 73.1% in the second quarter of fiscal 2016, compared to 74.1% in the second quarter of fiscal 2015.  The decrease is substantially due to favorable commodity pricing of raw materials and favorable currency impact on both the purchase of certain raw materials and labor costs in our foreign operations. The cost of products sold as a percentage of sales was also favorably impacted in the second quarter of fiscal 2016 due to the ramp-up of production in our lower cost manufacturing operation in Egypt.
Gross Profit. Automotive segment gross profit increased $0.2 million, or 0.5%, to $43.2 million for the three months ended October 31, 2015, as compared to $43.0 million for the three months ended November 1, 2014.  The Automotive segment gross margins as a percentage of net sales increased to 26.9% for the three months ended October 31, 2015, as

17

Table of Contents

compared to 25.9% for the three months ended November 1, 2014.  The increase is substantially due to favorable commodity pricing of raw materials and favorable currency impact on both the purchase of certain raw materials and labor costs in our foreign operations, partially offset by price concessions.
Selling and Administrative Expenses.  Selling and administrative expenses increased $0.1 million, or 1.3%, to $8.1 million for the three months ended October 31, 2015, as compared to $8.0 million for the three months ended November 1, 2014.  Selling and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales increased to 5.0% for the three months ended October 31, 2015 from 4.8% for the three months ended November 1, 2014, due to lower sales volumes. The expenses in the second quarter of fiscal 2016 increased slightly for benefit related expenses, partially offset with lower bonus expense.
Income from Operations. Automotive segment income from operations increased $0.1 million, or 0.3%, to $35.1 million for the three months ended October 31, 2015, compared to $35.0 million for the three months ended November 1, 2014. The second quarter of fiscal 2016 benefitted from favorable commodity pricing of raw materials and favorable currency impact on both the purchase of certain raw materials and labor costs in our foreign operations, partially offset with lower sales volumes and customer pricing concessions.

Interface Segment Results
Below is a table summarizing results for the three months ended:
($ in millions)
  October 31,
2015
 November 1,
2014
 Net Change Net Change
Net sales $35.8
 $40.6
 $(4.8) (11.8)%
         
Cost of products sold 26.4
 30.1
 (3.7) (12.3)%
         
Gross profit 9.4
 10.5
 (1.1) (10.5)%
         
Selling and administrative expenses 8.0
 5.7
 2.3
 40.4 %
         
Income from operations $1.4
 $4.8
 $(3.4) (70.8)%
         
Percent of sales: October 31,
2015
 November 1,
2014
    
Net sales 100.0% 100.0%    
Cost of products sold 73.7% 74.1%    
Gross margins 26.3% 25.9%    
Selling and administrative expenses 22.3% 14.0%    
Income from operations 3.9% 11.8%    
Net Sales.  Interface segment net sales decreased $4.8 million, or 11.8%, to $35.8 million for the three months ended October 31, 2015, from $40.6 million for the three months ended November 1, 2014.  Net sales decreased in North America by $3.2 million, or 9.8%, to $29.3 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2016, compared to $32.5 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2015, primarily due to lower sales volumes of appliance products and data solutions products, partially offset with higher radio remote control sales volumes. Net sales in Europe decreased $0.3 million, or 5.2%, to $5.5 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2016, compared to $5.8 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2015, primarily due to lower radio remote control sales volumes, partially offset with higher data solutions and sensor sales volumes. Net sales in Asia decreased $1.3 million, or 56.5%, to $1.0 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2016, compared to $2.3 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2015, primarily due to lower sales volumes of radio remote controls. The Philippine radio remote control operation was moved to Egypt during the first quarter of fiscal 2016.
Cost of Products Sold.  Interface segment cost of products sold decreased $3.7 million, or 12.3%, to $26.4 million for the three months ended October 31, 2015, compared to $30.1 million for the three months ended November 1, 2014.  Interface segment cost of products sold as a percentage of net sales decreased to 73.7% for the three months ended October 31, 2015,

18

Table of Contents

compared to 74.1% for the three months ended November 1, 2014.  The decrease in cost of products sold as a percentage of net sales is primarily due to sales mix within the segment as well as raw material cost and direct labor cost reductions in our appliance products, partially offset with manufacturing inefficiencies due to lower sales volumes.

Gross Profit. Interface segment gross profit decreased $1.1 million, or 10.5%, to $9.4 million for the three months ended October 31, 2015, compared to $10.5 million for the three months ended November 1, 2014.  Gross margins as a percentage of net sales increased to 26.3% for the three months ended October 31, 2015, from 25.9% for the three months ended November 1, 2014.  The increase in gross margins as a percentage of net sales is primarily due to sales mix within the segment as well as raw material cost and direct labor cost reductions in our appliance products, partially offset with manufacturing inefficiencies due to lower sales volumes.
Selling and Administrative Expenses.  Selling and administrative expenses increased $2.3 million, or 40.4%, to $8.0 million for the three months ended October 31, 2015, compared to $5.7 million for the three months ended November 1, 2014.  Selling and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales increased to 22.3% for the three months ended October 31, 2015, from 14.0% for the three months ended November 1, 2014. The increase in selling and administrative expenses is due primarily to increased legal expenses, and increased intangible asset amortization expense, and travel expenses, partially offset with lower bonus expense.
Income from Operations. Interface segment income from operations decreased $3.4 million, or 70.8%, to $1.4 million for the three months endedOctober 31, 2015, compared to $4.8 million for the three months endedNovember 1, 2014, primarily due to lower sales volumes, increased legal expenses, intangible asset amortization expense, travel and other selling expenses, partially offset with favorable sales mix and material and direct labor cost reductions.

Power Products Segment Results
Below is a table summarizing results for the three months ended:
($ in millions)
  October 31,
2015
 November 1,
2014
 Net Change Net Change
Net sales $11.8
 $21.6
 $(9.8) (45.4)%
         
Cost of products sold 10.7
 14.7
 (4.0) (27.2)%
         
Gross profit 1.1
 6.9
 (5.8) (84.1)%
         
Selling and administrative expenses 0.6
 1.3
 (0.7) (53.8)%
         
Income from operations $0.5
 $5.6
 $(5.1) (91.1)%
         
Percent of sales: October 31,
2015
 November 1,
2014
    
Net sales 100.0% 100.0%    
Cost of products sold 90.7% 68.1%    
Gross margins 9.3% 31.9%    
Selling and administrative expenses 5.1% 6.0%    
Income from operations 4.2% 25.9%    
Net Sales.  Power Products segment net sales decreased $9.8 million, or 45.4%, to $11.8 million for the three months endedOctober 31, 2015, compared to $21.6 million for the three months endedNovember 1, 2014.  Net sales decreased in North America by $6.7 million, or 50.0%, to $6.7 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2016 compared to $13.4 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2015, primarily due to lower sales volumes of datacom products. Net sales in Europe decreased $1.4 million, or 56.0%, to $1.1 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2016, compared to $2.5 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2015, primarily due to lower sales volumes of bypass switches and busbar products. Net sales in Asia decreased $1.7 million,

19

Table of Contents

or 29.8%, to $4.0 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2016, compared to $5.7 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2015, primarily due to decreased sales volumes of busbar and cabling products.
Cost of Products Sold.  Power Products segment cost of products sold decreased $4.0 million, or 27.2%, to $10.7 million for the three months ended October 31, 2015, compared to $14.7 million for the three months ended November 1, 2014.  The Power Products segment cost of products sold as a percentage of net sales increased to 90.7% for the three months ended October 31, 2015, from 68.1% for the three months ended November 1, 2014.  The increase in cost of products sold as a percentage of net sales is primarily due to manufacturing inefficiencies related to decreased sales volumes.
Gross Profit.  Power Products segment gross profit decreased $5.8 million, or 84.1%, to $1.1 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2016, compared to $6.9 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2015.  Gross margins as a percentage of net sales decreased to 9.3% for the three months ended October 31, 2015 from 31.9% for the three months ended November 1, 2014. The decrease in gross margins as a percentage of net sales is primarily due to manufacturing inefficiencies related to decreased sales volumes.

Selling and Administrative Expenses.  Selling and administrative expenses decreased $0.7 million, or 53.8%, to $0.6 million for the three months ended October 31, 2015, compared to $1.3 million for the three months ended November 1, 2014.  Selling and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales decreased to 5.1% for the three months ended October 31, 2015 from 6.0% for the three months ended November 1, 2014. Selling and administrative expenses decreased primarily due to lower commission and bonus expense in North America.
Income From Operations. Power Products segment income from operations decreased $5.1 million, or 91.1%, to $0.5 million for the three months ended October 31, 2015, compared to $5.6 million for the three months ended November 1, 2014, due to manufacturing inefficiencies related to decreased sales volumes, partially offset with lower commission and bonus expense.

Other Segment Results
Below is a table summarizing results for the three months ended:
($ in millions)
(“N/M” equals not meaningful)

  October 31,
2015
 November 1,
2014
 Net Change Net Change
Net sales $
 $1.6
 $(1.6) (100.0)%
         
Cost of products sold 1.1
 1.7
 (0.6) (35.3)%
         
Gross profit (1.1) (0.1) (1.0) 1,000.0 %
         
Selling and administrative expenses 0.8
 0.9
 (0.1) (11.1)%
         
Loss from operations $(1.9) $(1.0) $(0.9) N/M
         
Percent of sales: October 31,
2015
 November 1,
2014
    
Net sales N/M 100.0 %    
Cost of products sold N/M 106.3 %    
Gross margins N/M (6.3)%    
Selling and administrative expenses N/M 56.3 %    
Loss from operations N/M (62.5)%    
Net Sales.  The Other segment net sales decreased $1.6 million, due to minimal sales for the three months ended October 31, 2015, compared to $1.6 million for the three months ended November 1, 2014. The decrease is due to sale of Trace

20

Table of Contents

Laboratories businesses units at the beginning of the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015. The remaining operating units in this segment, medical devices, inverters and battery systems, had minimal net sales in the second quarter of fiscal 2016 or the second quarter of fiscal 2015.
Cost of Products Sold.  Other segment cost of products sold decreased $0.6 million, or 35.3%, to $1.1 million for the three months ended October 31, 2015, compared to $1.7 million for the three months ended November 1, 2014. The decrease is primarily due to the sale of Trace Laboratories, partially offset with development costs in our medical devices, inverters and battery systems operating units.

Gross Profit. The Other segment gross profit was a loss of $1.1 million for the three months ended October 31, 2015, compared to a loss of $0.1 million in the three months ended November 1, 2014.  The decrease is primarily due to the sale of Trace Laboratories, partially offset with development costs in our medical devices, inverters and battery systems operating units.
Selling and Administrative Expenses.  Selling and administrative expenses decreased $0.1 million, or 11.1%, to $0.8 million for the three months ended October 31, 2015, compared to $0.9 million for the three months ended November 1, 2014.  The decrease is primarily due to the sale of Trace Laboratories business, partially offset by increased headcount and professional fees in our medical devices, inverters and battery systems operating units.

Loss From Operations The Other segment loss from operations increased $0.9 million, to $1.9 million for the three months ended October 31, 2015, compared to $1.0 million for the three months ended November 1, 2014.  The increased loss was primarily due to sale of Trace Laboratories business, increased development expenses, professional fees and headcount.


21

Table of Contents

Results of Operations for the Six Months Ended October 31, 2015 as Compared to the Six Months Ended November 1, 2014
Consolidated Results
Below is a table summarizing results for the six months ended:
($ in millions)
(“N/M” equals not meaningful)
  October 31,
2015
 November 1,
2014
 Net Change Net Change
Net sales $411.7
 $447.8
 $(36.1) (8.1)%
         
Cost of products sold 307.2
 337.2
 (30.0) (8.9)%
         
Gross profit 104.5
 110.6
 (6.1) (5.5)%
         
Selling and administrative expenses 47.6
 47.6
 
  %
Interest income, net (0.5) (0.2) (0.3) N/M
Other (income)/expense, net (0.5) 0.1
 (0.6) N/M
Income tax expense 13.1
 15.7
 (2.6) (16.6)%
Net income attributable to Methode Electronics, Inc. $44.8
 $47.4
 $(2.6) (5.5)%
         
Percent of sales: October 31,
2015
 November 1,
2014
    
Net sales 100.0 % 100.0 %    
Cost of products sold 74.6 % 75.3 %    
Gross margins 25.4 % 24.7 %    
Selling and administrative expenses 11.6 % 10.6 %    
Interest income, net (0.1)%  %    
Other (income)/expense, net (0.1)%  %    
Income tax expense 3.2 % 3.5 %    
Net income attributable to Methode Electronics, Inc. 10.9 % 10.6 %    
Net Sales.  Consolidated net sales decreased $36.1 million, or 8.1%, to $411.7 million for the six months ended October 31, 2015, from $447.8 million for the six months ended November 1, 2014.  The Automotive segment net sales decreased $8.5 million, or 2.6%, to $313.8 million for the first half of fiscal 2016, from $322.3 million for the first half of fiscal 2015, primarily due to lower sales volumes of the Ford Center Console program, unfavorable currency rate fluctuations and pricing concessions on certain products, partially offset by increased sales volumes for the GM Center Console program and transmission lead-frame assemblies.   The Interface segment net sales decreased $14.9 million, or 17.6%, to $69.6 million for the first half of fiscal 2016, compared to $84.5 million for the first half of fiscal 2015, due to lower sales volumes of appliance, data solutions and radio remote control products.  The Power Products segment net sales decreased $9.5 million, or 25.1%, to $28.3 million for the first half of fiscal 2016, compared to $37.8 million for the first half of fiscal 2015, primarily due to lower sales volumes for datacom, cabling and busbar products. The Other segment had minimal sales in the first half of fiscal 2016 because the Company sold its Trace Laboratories operating units in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015 and the remaining operating units in this segment, medical devices, inverters and battery systems, had minimal net sales in the first half of fiscal 2016 or the second quarter of fiscal 2015.  Translation of foreign operations net sales for the six months ended October 31, 2015 decreased net sales by $10.3 million, or 2.4%, in the first half of fiscal 2016, compared to the average currency rates in the first half of fiscal 2015, primarily due to the strengthening of the U.S. dollar compared to the euro.
Cost of Products Sold.  Consolidated cost of products sold decreased $30.0 million, or 8.9%, to $307.2 million for the six months ended October 31, 2015, compared to $337.2 million for the six months ended November 1, 2014.  Consolidated cost of products sold as a percentage of net sales decreased to 74.6% for the first half of fiscal 2016, compared to 75.3% for the first half of fiscal 2015.  The Automotive segment experienced a decrease in cost of products sold as a percentage of net sales substantially due to favorable commodity pricing of raw materials and favorable currency impact on both the purchase of certain raw materials and labor costs in our foreign operations. The cost of products sold as a percentage of sales was also

22

Table of Contents

favorably impacted in the first half of fiscal 2016 due to the ramp-up of production in our lower cost manufacturing operation in Egypt. The Interface segment experienced an increase in cost of products sold as a percentage of net sales primarily due to additional costs and inefficiencies experienced during the first quarter of fiscal 2016 related to the move of the radio remote control operation from the Philippines to Egypt. The Company experienced moving costs, severance and redundant staffing of $1.0 million during the first quarter of fiscal 2016 in addition to the manufacturing inefficiencies. The Interface segment also experienced an increase in cost of goods sold as a percentage of sales, in the first half of fiscal 2016, due to lower sales volumes for appliance and data solutions products. The Power Products segment experienced an increase in cost of products sold as a percentage of net sales primarily due to manufacturing inefficiencies related to decreased sales volumes.
Gross Profit. Consolidated gross profit decreased $6.1 million, or 5.5%, to $104.5 million for the six months ended October 31, 2015, as compared to $110.6 million for the six months ended November 1, 2014.  Gross margins as a percentage of net sales increased to 25.4% for the six months ended October 31, 2015, compared to 24.7% for the six months ended November 1, 2014.  The increase is primarily due to by favorable commodity pricing and the favorable currency impact on the purchase of certain raw materials and labor costs in our foreign operations in the automotive segment, partially offset by manufacturing inefficiencies related to decreased sales volumes for the Interface and Power Products segments and the additional costs and inefficiencies experienced during the first quarter of fiscal 2016 related to the move of the radio remote control operation from the Philippines to Egypt.
Selling and Administrative Expenses.  Selling and administrative expenses remained constant at $47.6 million for both the six months ended October 31, 2015 and November 1, 2014.  Selling and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales increased to 11.6% for the six months ended October 31, 2015 from 10.6% for the six months ended November 1, 2014. In the first half of fiscal 2016, expenses increased for legal and other professional fees by $3.0 million, wages and benefit expense by $1.7 million, travel and advertising expenses by $0.6 million, and amortization expense of $0.4 million, offset by decreased bonus expense of $5.7 million.
Interest Income, Net.  Interest income, net increased $0.3 million, to $0.5 million for the six months ended October 31, 2015, compared to $0.2 million for the six months ended November 1, 2014. The increase is primarily due to decreased debt levels during fiscal 2016 as compared to fiscal 2015.

Other (Income)/Expense, Net. Other (income)/expense, net decreased $0.6 million to income of $0.5 million for the six months ended October 31, 2015, compared to an expense of $0.1 million for the six months ended November 1, 2014. All amounts for both the first half of fiscal 2016 and the first half of fiscal 2015, relate to currency rate fluctuations. The functional currencies of these operations are the British pound, Chinese yuan, euro, Indian rupee, Mexican peso, Singapore dollar and Swiss franc. Some foreign operations have transactions denominated in currencies other than their functional currencies, primarily sales in U.S. dollars and euros, creating exchange rate sensitivities.

Income Tax Expense.  Income tax expense decreased $2.6$1.9 million, or 16.6%25.7%, to $13.1$5.5 million for the sixthree months ended October 31, 2015,July 30, 2016, compared to $15.7$7.4 million for the sixthree months ended NovemberAugust 1, 2014.2015.  The Company's effective tax rate decreased to 22.7%20.6% in the first halfquarter of fiscal 2016,2017, compared to 24.9%23.9% in the first halfquarter quarter of fiscal 2015.2016.
 
Net Income Attributable to Methode Electronics, Inc.  Net income attributable to Methode Electronics, Inc. decreased $2.6$2.3 million, or 5.5%9.8%, to $44.8$21.2 million for the sixthree months ended October 31, 2015,July 30, 2016, compared to $47.4$23.5 million for the sixthree months ended NovemberAugust 1, 2014,2015, primarily due to lower sales volumes, manufacturing inefficiencies due tohigher legal expenses, higher stock award amortization expense and lower sales volumes, the additional costs and inefficiencies experienced during the first quarter of fiscal 2016 related to the move of the radio remote control operation from the Philippines to Egypt, and no sales or earnings due to the sale of Trace Laboratories,interest income, partially offset with the favorable impact of commodity pricing adjustments and the one-time reversal of raw materials and favorable currency impact on both the purchase of certain raw materials and labor costs in our foreign operations, favorable currency rate translation fluctuationsaccruals related to resolved customer commercial issues. Net income was also favorably impacted by lower bonus expense and lower income tax expense.


23


Operating Segments
 
Automotive Segment Results
 
Below is a table summarizing results for the sixthree months ended:
($ in millions)
 October 31,
2015
 November 1,
2014
 Net Change Net Change July 30,
2016
 August 1,
2015
 Net Change Net Change
Net sales $313.8
 $322.3
 $(8.5) (2.6)% $147.1
 $153.1
 $(6.0) (3.9)%
                
Cost of products sold 226.6
 243.8
 (17.2) (7.1)% 102.7
 109.6
 (6.9) (6.3)%
                
Gross profit 87.2
 78.5
 8.7
 11.1 % 44.4
 43.5
 0.9
 2.1 %
                
Selling and administrative expenses 16.1
 15.8
 0.3
 1.9 % 8.3
 7.6
 0.7
 9.2 %
                
Income from operations $71.1
 $62.7
 $8.4
 13.4 % $36.1
 $35.9
 $0.2
 0.6 %
                
Percent of sales: October 31,
2015
 November 1,
2014
     July 30,
2016
 August 1,
2015
    
Net sales 100.0% 100.0%     100.0% 100.0%    
Cost of products sold 72.2% 75.6%     69.8% 71.6%    
Gross margins 27.8% 24.4%     30.2% 28.4%    
Selling and administrative expenses 5.1% 4.9%     5.6% 5.0%    
Income from operations 22.7% 19.5%     24.5% 23.4%    
 
Net Sales.  Automotive segment net sales decreased $8.5$6.0 million, or 2.6%3.9%, to $313.8$147.1 million for the sixthree months ended October 31, 2015,July 30, 2016, from $322.3$153.1 million for the sixthree months ended NovemberAugust 1, 2014.2015.  Net sales decreasedincreased slightly in North America by $16.7$0.2 million, or 8.5%0.2%, to $180.1$87.7 million forin the first halfquarter of fiscal 2016,2017, compared to $196.8$87.5 million forin the first halfquarter of fiscal 2015, primarily due to2016. Sales volumes increased for our GM Center Console program and transmission lead-frame assemblies, partially offset with lower sales volumes of the Ford Center Console program which substantially completed production at the end of fiscal 2015. Sales volumes of the GM Center Console program increased due to increased volumes, partially offset with pricing concessions on certain products. In addition, sales volumes increased for our transmission lead-frame assemblies in the first half of fiscal 2016 as compared to the first half of fiscal 2015.program. Net sales decreased in Europe by $0.7$3.7 million, or 0.9%9.5%, to $80.7$35.2 million in the first halfquarter of fiscal 2016,2017, compared to $81.4$38.9 million in the first halfquarter of fiscal 2015,2016, primarily due to unfavorable currency rate fluctuations,decreased sales volumes for ignition and steering wheel switch products, partially offset by higher tooling salesnew launches of Integrated Center Panels and higher sales volumes for hidden switchentertainment control products. Net sales in Asia increased $8.9decreased $2.5 million, or 20.2%9.4%, to $53.0$24.2 million in the first halfquarter of fiscal 2016,2017, compared to $44.1$26.7 million in the first halfquarter of fiscal 2015,2016, primarily due to higherlower sales volumes for our transmission lead-frame assemblies, linear positionsteering angle sensor products and interior lighting products, partially offset with lower sales volumes of steering angle sensor products.unfavorable currency rate fluctuations. Translation of foreign operations net sales for the sixthree months ended October 31, 2015July 30, 2016 decreased reported net sales by $10.3$0.7 million, or 3.2%0.5%, due to average currency rates in the first halfquarter of fiscal 2016,2017, compared to the average currency rates in the first halfquarter of fiscal 2015,2016, primarily due to the strengthening of the U.S. dollar as compared to the euro.Chinese yuan.

Cost of Products Sold.  Automotive segment cost of products sold decreased $17.2$6.9 million, or 7.1%6.3%, to $226.6$102.7 million for the three months ended July 30, 2016, compared to $109.6 million for the sixthree months ended October 31,August 1, 2015 from $243.8 million for the six months ended November 1, 2014..  The Automotive segment cost of products sold as a percentage of net sales decreased to 72.2%69.8% in the first half quarter of fiscal 2016,2017, compared to 75.6%71.6% in the first half quarter of fiscal 2015.2016.  The decrease is substantially due to favorableresults for the first quarter of fiscal 2017 include $1.0 million of commodity pricing adjustments and the reversal of raw materials and favorable currency impact on both the purchase of certain raw materials and labor costs in our foreign operations. The cost of products sold as a percentage of sales was also favorably impacted in the first half of fiscal 2016 dueaccruals $1.0 million related to the ramp-up of production in our lower cost manufacturing operation in Egypt.
Gross Profit. Automotive segment gross profit increased $8.7 million, or 11.1%, to $87.2 million for the six months ended October 31, 2015, as compared to $78.5 million for the six months ended November 1, 2014.  The Automotive segment gross margins as a percentage of net sales increased to 27.8% for the six months ended October 31, 2015, as compared to 24.4% for the six months ended November 1, 2014.  The increaseresolved customer commercial issues. In addition, decrease is substantially due to favorable commodity pricing of raw materials and favorable currency impact on both the purchase of certain raw materials and labor costs in our foreign operations, partially offsetprimarily in Mexico and China. The first quarter of fiscal 2016 was favorably impacted by price concessions.$1.3 million due to a refund of import duties from prior periods as a result of the U.S. signing into law in June 2015 to renew a trade program that retrospectively removes tariffs on imports from certain countries.

24

Table of Contents

 
Selling and Administrative ExpensesGross Profit. Automotive segment gross profit increased $0.9 million, or 2.1%, to $44.4 million for the three months ended July 30, 2016, as compared to $43.5 million for the three months ended August 1, 2015Selling and administrative expenses increased $0.3 million, or 1.9%, to $16.1 million for the six months ended October 31, 2015, compared to $15.8 million for the six months ended November 1, 2014.  Selling and administrative expensesThe Automotive segment gross margins as a percentage of net sales were 5.1%increased to 30.2% for the sixthree months ended October 31, 2015 and 4.9%July 30, 2016, as compared to 28.4% for the sixthree months ended NovemberAugust 1, 2014.2015.  The increase in expenses ingross profit for the first halfquarter of fiscal 2016 is primarily2017 was favorably impacted by $1.0 million

for commodity pricing adjustments and the reversal of accruals $1.0 million related to resolved customer commercial issues. In addition, gross profit was favorably impacted due to higher salary and benefit expense and travel expenses, partially offset with lower bonus expenses.
Income from Operations. Automotive segment income from operations increased $8.4 million, or 13.4%, to $71.1 million for the six months ended October 31, 2015, compared to $62.7 million for the six months ended November 1, 2014. The first half of fiscal 2016 benefitted from favorable commodity pricing of raw materials and favorable currency impact on both the purchase of certain raw materials and labor costs in our foreign operations, primarily in Mexico and China. The first quarter of fiscal 2016 was favorably impacted by $1.3 million due to a refund of import duties from prior periods as a result of the U.S. signing into law in June 2015 to renew a trade program that retrospectively removes tariffs on imports from certain countries.
Selling and Administrative Expenses.  Selling and administrative expenses increased $0.7 million, or 9.2%, to $8.3 million for the three months ended July 30, 2016, as compared to $7.6 million for the three months ended August 1, 2015.  Selling and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales increased to 5.6% for the three months ended July 30, 2016 from 5.0% for the three months ended August 1, 2015, due to higher stock award compensation expense, partially offset with lower bonus expense.
Income from Operations. Automotive segment income from operations increased $0.2 million, or 0.6%, to $36.1 million for the three months ended July 30, 2016, compared to $35.9 million for the three months ended August 1, 2015. The first quarter of fiscal 2017 income from operations increased due to commodity pricing adjustments and one-time reversal of accruals related to resolved customer commercial issues, favorable commodity pricing of raw materials and favorable currency impact on both the purchase of certain raw materials and labor costs in our foreign operations and lower bonus expenses, partially offset with lower sales volumes customer pricing concessions and higher selling and administrative expenses.stock award amortization expense.

Interface Segment Results
 
Below is a table summarizing results for the sixthree months ended:
($ in millions)
 October 31,
2015
 November 1,
2014
 Net Change Net Change July 30,
2016
 August 1,
2015
 Net Change Net Change
Net sales $69.6
 $84.5
 $(14.9) (17.6)% $32.9
 $33.7
 $(0.8) (2.4)%
                
Cost of products sold 53.1
 61.9
 (8.8) (14.2)% 25.1
 26.5
 (1.4) (5.3)%
                
Gross profit 16.5
 22.6
 (6.1) (27.0)% 7.8
 7.2
 0.6
 8.3 %
                
Selling and administrative expenses 14.4
 10.7
 3.7
 34.6 % 8.5
 6.5
 2.0
 30.8 %
                
Income from operations $2.1
 $11.9
 $(9.8) (82.4)%
Income/(loss) from operations $(0.7) $0.7
 $(1.4) (200.0)%
                
Percent of sales: October 31,
2015
 November 1,
2014
     July 30,
2016
 August 1,
2015
    
Net sales 100.0% 100.0%     100.0 % 100.0%    
Cost of products sold 76.3% 73.3%     76.3 % 78.6%    
Gross margins 23.7% 26.7%     23.7 % 21.4%    
Selling and administrative expenses 20.7% 12.7%     25.8 % 19.3%    
Income from operations 3.0% 14.1%    
Income/(loss) from operations (2.1)% 2.1%    
 
Net Sales.  Interface segment net sales decreased $14.9$0.8 million, or 17.6%2.4%, to $69.6$32.9 million for the sixthree months ended October 31, 2015,July 30, 2016, from $84.5$33.7 million for the sixthree months ended NovemberAugust 1, 2014.2015.  Net sales decreased in North America by $11.5$1.2 million, or 17.1%4.6%, to $55.7$25.0 million in the first halfquarter of fiscal 2016,2017, compared to $67.2$26.2 million in the first halfquarter of fiscal 2015,2016, primarily due to lower sales volumes of appliance products and data solutions products, partially offset with higherand radio remote control sales volumes.products. Net sales in Europe increased $0.2decreased slightly by $0.1 million, or 1.7%1.5%, to $12.3$6.7 million in the first halfquarter of fiscal 2016,2017, compared to $12.1$6.8 million in the first halfquarter of fiscal 2015,2016, primarily due to higherlower radio remote control and data solutions sales volumes. Net sales in Asia decreased $3.6increased $0.5 million, or 69.2%71.4%, to $1.6$1.2 million in the first half of fiscal 2016, compared to $5.2 million in the first half of fiscal 2015, primarily due to lower sales volumes of radio remote controls. The Philippine radio remote control operation was moved to Egypt during the first quarter of fiscal 2016.2017, compared to $0.7 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2016, primarily due to higher sales volumes of legacy product.
 

Cost of Products Sold.  Interface segment cost of products sold decreased $8.8$1.4 million, or 14.2%5.3%, to $53.1$25.1 million for the sixthree months ended October 31, 2015,July 30, 2016, compared to $61.9$26.5 million for the sixthree months ended NovemberAugust 1, 2014.2015.  Interface segment cost of products sold as a percentage of net sales increaseddecreased to 76.3% for the sixthree months ended October 31, 2015,July 30, 2016, compared to 73.3%78.6% for the sixthree months ended NovemberAugust 1, 2014.2015.  The increase in cost of products sold as a percentage of net salesdecrease is primarily due to favorable commodity pricing of raw materials and favorable currency impact on both the purchase of certain raw materials and labor costs in our foreign operations, primarily in Mexico. The three months ended August 1, 2016 included $1.0 million of additional costs and inefficiencies experienced during the first quarter of fiscal 2016 related to the move of the radio remote control operation from the Philippines to Egypt. The Company experienced moving costs, severance and redundant staffing of $1.0 million during the first quarter of fiscal 2016 in addition to the manufacturing inefficiencies. Cost of products sold as a percentage of sales also increased in the first half of fiscal 2016 due to lower sales volumes for appliance and data solutions products.

25



Gross Profit. Interface segment gross profit decreased $6.1increased $0.6 million, or 27.0%8.3%, to $16.5$7.8 million for the three months ended July 30, 2016, compared to $7.2 million for the sixthree months ended October 31,August 1, 2015 compared to $22.6 million for the six months ended November 1, 2014..  Gross margins as a percentage of net sales decreasedincreased to 23.7% for the sixthree months ended October 31, 2015, from 26.7%July 30, 2016, compared to 21.4% for the sixthree months ended NovemberAugust 1, 2014.2015.  The decrease in gross margins as a percentage of net salesincrease is primarily due to movingfavorable commodity pricing of raw materials and favorable currency impact on both the purchase of certain raw materials and labor costs severancein our foreign operations, primarily in Mexico. The three months ended August 1, 2016 included $1.0 million of additional costs and redundant staffinginefficiencies experienced related to the move of the radio remote control operation from the Philippines to Egypt and lower appliance and data solution products sales volumes.Egypt.
 
Selling and Administrative Expenses.  Selling and administrative expenses increased $3.7$2.0 million, or 34.6%30.8%, to $14.4$8.5 million for the sixthree months ended October 31, 2015,July 30, 2016, compared to $10.7$6.5 million for the sixthree months ended NovemberAugust 1, 2014.2015.  Selling and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales increased to 20.7%25.8% for the sixthree months ended October 31, 2015,July 30, 2016, from 12.7%19.3% for the sixthree months ended NovemberAugust 1, 2014.2015. The increase in selling and administrative expenses is due primarily due to increased legal expenses increased compensationand stock award amortization expense, partially offset with lower advertising, travel expense, other professional fees and intangible asset amortization expense.bonus expenses.
 
IncomeIncome/(Loss) from Operations. Interface segment incomeincome/(loss) from operations decreased $9.8$1.4 million, or 82.4%200.0%, to $2.1a loss of $0.7 million for the sixthree months ended October 31, 2015,July 30, 2016, compared to $11.9income of $0.7 million for the sixthree months ended NovemberAugust 1, 2014,2015, primarily due to higher legal and stock award amortization expenses and lower sales volumes, increased legalpartially offset with favorable commodity pricing of raw materials and the currency impact of labor expenses, intangible asset amortization expense,lower advertising, travel expense and other sellingbonus expenses.

Power Products Segment Results
 
Below is a table summarizing results for the sixthree months ended:
($ in millions)
 October 31,
2015
 November 1,
2014
 Net Change Net Change July 30,
2016
 August 1,
2015
 Net Change Net Change
Net sales $28.3
 $37.8
 $(9.5) (25.1)% $12.0
 $16.5
 $(4.5) (27.3)%
                
Cost of products sold 23.1
 26.7
 (3.6) (13.5)% 8.6
 12.4
 (3.8) (30.6)%
                
Gross profit 5.2
 11.1
 (5.9) (53.2)% 3.4
 4.1
 (0.7) (17.1)%
                
Selling and administrative expenses 1.7
 2.5
 (0.8) (32.0)% 0.9
 1.0
 (0.1) (10.0)%
                
Income from operations $3.5
 $8.6
 $(5.1) (59.3)% $2.5
 $3.1
 $(0.6) (19.4)%
                
Percent of sales: October 31,
2015
 November 1,
2014
     July 30,
2016
 August 1,
2015
    
Net sales 100.0% 100.0%     100.0% 100.0%    
Cost of products sold 81.6% 70.6%     71.7% 75.2%    
Gross margins 18.4% 29.4%     28.3% 24.8%    
Selling and administrative expenses 6.0% 6.6%     7.5% 6.1%    
Income from operations 12.4% 22.8%     20.8%��18.8%    
 

Net Sales.  Power Products segment net sales decreased $9.5$4.5 million, or 25.1%27.3%, to $28.3$12.0 million for the sixthree months ended October 31, 2015,July 30, 2016, compared to $37.8$16.5 million for the sixthree months ended NovemberAugust 1, 2014.2015.  Net sales decreased in North America by $8.3$2.9 million, or 34.9%33.0%, to $15.5$5.9 million in the first halfquarter of fiscal 2016,2017, compared to $23.8$8.8 million in the first halfquarter of fiscal 2015,2016, primarily due to lower sales volumes of datacomPowerRail® products. Net sales in Europe increased $0.2decreased $1.0 million, or 6.5%45.5%, to $3.3$1.2 million in the first halfquarter of fiscal 2016,2017, compared to $3.1$2.2 million in the first halfquarter of fiscal 2015,2016, primarily due to higherlower sales volumes of a bypass switch.switches and busbar products. Net sales in Asia decreased $1.4$0.6 million, or 12.8%10.9%, to $9.5$4.9 million in the first halfquarter of fiscal 2016,2017, compared to $10.9$5.5 million in the first halfquarter of fiscal 2015,2016, primarily due to decreased sales volumes of busbar and cabling products.
 
Cost of Products Sold.  Power Products segment cost of products sold decreased $3.6$3.8 million, or 13.5%30.6%, to $23.1$8.6 million for the three months ended July 30, 2016, compared to $12.4 million for the sixthree months ended October 31,August 1, 2015 compared to $26.7 million for the six months ended November 1, 2014..  The Power Products segment cost of products sold as a percentage of net sales increaseddecreased to 81.6%71.7% for the sixthree months ended

26


October 31, 2015,July 30, 2016, from 70.6%75.2% for the sixthree months ended NovemberAugust 1, 2014.2015.  The increasedecrease primarily relates to implemented overhead cost reductions in cost of products sold asthe U.S. and China. In addition, our China operation experienced a percentage of net sales is primarilyfavorable currency impact for both material and labor expenses due to manufacturing inefficiencies related to decreased sales volumes.the weakening Chinese yuan.
 
Gross Profit.  Power Products segment gross profit decreased $5.9$0.7 million, or 53.2%17.1%, to $5.2$3.4 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2017, compared to $4.1 million in the first halfquarter of fiscal 2016, compared to $11.1 million in the first half of fiscal 2015.2016.  Gross margins as a percentage of net sales decreasedincreased to 18.4%28.3% for the sixthree months ended October 31, 2015July 30, 2016 from 29.4%24.8% for the sixthree months ended NovemberAugust 1, 2014.2015. The decreaseincrease primarily relates to implemented overhead cost reductions in gross margins asthe U.S. and China. In addition, our China operation experienced a percentage of net sales is primarilyfavorable currency impact for both material and labor expenses due to manufacturing inefficiencies related to decreased sales volumes.the weakening Chinese yuan.

Selling and Administrative Expenses.  Selling and administrative expenses decreased $0.8$0.1 million, or 32.0%10.0%, to $1.7$0.9 million for sixthe three months ended October 31, 2015,July 30, 2016, compared to $2.5$1.0 million for the ninethree months ended NovemberAugust 1, 2014.2015.  Selling and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales decreasedincreased to 6.0%7.5% for the sixthree months ended October 31, 2015July 30, 2016 from 6.6%6.1% for the sixthree months ended NovemberAugust 1, 2014. The decrease is2015. Selling and administrative expenses decreased primarily due to lower commission and bonus expense, in North America.partially offset with higher stock award amortization expense.
 
Income From Operations. Power Products segment income from operations decreased $5.1$0.6 million, or 59.3%19.4%, to $3.5$2.5 million for the sixthree months ended October 31, 2015,July 30, 2016, compared to $8.6$3.1 million for the sixthree months ended NovemberAugust 1, 2014,2015, due to manufacturing inefficiencies related to decreased sales volumes and higher stock award amortization expense, partially offset withoverhead cost reductions, favorable currency impact of material purchases and labor costs and lower commission and bonus expense.expenses.

Other Segment Results
 
Below is a table summarizing results for the sixthree months ended:
($ in millions)
(“N/M” equals not meaningful) 

 October 31,
2015
 November 1,
2014
 Net Change Net Change July 30,
2016
 August 1,
2015
 Net Change 
Net sales $
 $3.3
 $(3.3) (100.0)% $0.1
 $
 $0.1
 
               
Cost of products sold 2.1
 3.6
 (1.5) (41.7)% 1.1
 1.0
 0.1
 
               
Gross profit (2.1) (0.3) (1.8) N/M
 (1.0) (1.0) 
 
               
Selling and administrative expenses 2.0
 2.7
 (0.7) (25.9)% 1.3
 1.3
 
 
               
Loss from operations $(4.1) $(3.0) $(1.1) 36.7 % $(2.3) $(2.3) $
 
               
Percent of sales: October 31,
2015
 November 1,
2014
    
Net sales N/A
 100.0 %    
Cost of products sold N/A
 109.1 %    
Gross margins N/A
 (9.1)%    
Selling and administrative expenses N/A
 81.8 %    
Loss from operations N/A
 (90.9)%    
 
Net Sales.  The Other segment net sales decreased $3.3increased $0.1 million or 100.0%, due to minimal sales for the three months ended July 30, 2016, compared to no sales for the sixthree months ended October 31,August 1, 2015 compared to $3.3 million for the six months ended November 1, 2014,. The decrease is primarily due to sale of Trace Laboratories business at the beginning of the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015. The remaining operating units in this segment, medical

devices, inverters and battery systems, had minimal net sales in the first halfquarter of fiscal 2017 and in the first quarter of fiscal 2016 or in the first half fiscal 2015.due to newly launched products.
 
Cost of Products Sold.  Other segment cost of products sold decreased $1.5increased $0.1 million, or 41.7%, to $2.1$1.1 million for the sixthree months ended October 31, 2015,July 30, 2016, compared to $3.6$1.0 million for the sixthree months ended NovemberAugust 1, 2014. The decrease is primarily due to the sale of Trace Laboratories, partially offset with development costs in our medical devices, inverters and battery systems operating units.2015.


27

Table of Contents

Gross Profit. The Other segment gross profit decreased $1.8 million, towas a loss of $2.1$1.0 million for both the three months ended July 30, 2016, and for the sixthree months ended October 31,August 1, 2015 compared to a loss of $0.3 million for the six months ended November 1, 2014. The decrease is primarily due to the sale of Trace Laboratories, partially offset with development costs in our medical devices, inverters and battery systems operating units.
 
Selling and Administrative Expenses.  Selling and administrative expenses decreased $0.7 million, or 25.9%, to $2.0remained constant at $1.3 million for both the sixthree months ended October 31, 2015, compared to $2.7 million forJuly 30, 2016 and the sixthree months ended NovemberAugust 1, 2014.  The decrease is primarily due to the sale of Trace Laboratories business, partially offset by increased headcount and professional fees in our medical devices, inverters and battery systems operating units.2015.

Loss From Operations The Other segment loss from operations increased $1.1remained constant at $2.3 million to $4.1 million for both the three months ended July 30, 2016 and for the sixthree months ended October 31,August 1, 2015 compared to $3.0 million for the six months ended November 1, 2014.  The increased loss was primarily due to sale of Trace Laboratories business, increased development expenses, professional fees and headcount..


Liquidity and Capital Resources
     
We believe our current world-wide cash balances together with expected future cash flows to be generated from operations and our committed credit facility will be sufficient to support current operations. A significant amount of cash and expected future cash flows are located outside of the U.S. Of the $186.6$249.3 million of cash and cash equivalents as of October 31, 2015, $177.0July 30, 2016, $237.1 million was held in subsidiaries outside the U.S. and all of this amount is deemed to be permanently reinvested and therefore not available to fund our domestic operations. We currently have $2.1 million of federal net operating loss carry-forwards in the U.S. which would reduce the cash tax obligation (if the carry-forward has not otherwise been used) upon any future repatriation of funds.

We are party to an Amended and Restated Credit Agreement with Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent, and certain other financial institutions, which has a maturity of September 21, 2017. The credit facility is in the aggregate principal amount of $100.0 million, with an option to increase the principal amount by an additional $50.0 million, subject to customary conditions and approval of the lender(s) providing new commitment(s). The credit facility provides for variable rates of interest based on the type of borrowing and the Company's debt to EBITDA financial ratio. The Amended and Restated Credit Agreement is guaranteed by certain of our U.S. subsidiaries. At October 31, 2015,July 30, 2016, the interest rate on the credit facility was 1.5% plus LIBOR and we were in compliance with the covenants of the agreement. During the first sixthree months of fiscal 2016,2017, we had no borrowings of $25.0 million and payments of $8.2$3.3 million, which includes interest of $0.2$0.3 million, under this credit facility. As of October 31, 2015,July 30, 2016, there were outstanding balances against the credit facility of $22.0$54.0 million.  There was $78.0$46.0 million available to borrow under the credit facility as of October 31, 2015,July 30, 2016, which does not include the option to increase the principal amount.

Cash Flow - Operating Activities
 
Net cash provided by operating activities decreased $14.1increased $15.4 million to $49.1$34.4 million for the first sixthree months of fiscal 2016,2017, compared to $63.2$19.0 million for the first sixthree months of fiscal 2015,2016, primarily due to the increased cash use of $11.5 milliongenerated from the changes in operating assets and liabilities of $14.9 million and the increased non-cash add-back of $3.2 million for stock award amortization expense, partially offset with a decrease in net income of $2.6$2.3 million. The net changes in assets and liabilities resulted in the cash usegeneration of $9.9$3.8 million in the first halfquarter of fiscal 2016,2017, compared to cash generationuse of $1.6of $11.1 million in the first halfquarter of fiscal 2015.2016. The increased cash usegeneration in the first halfquarter of fiscal 2016 compared to the first half of fiscal 2015 is2017 was primarily driven by the timing of receivable collections, partially offset with increased cash payments for bonuses and payroll taxes, partially offset with timing of receivable collections.bonuses.
 
Cash Flow - Investing Activities
 
Net cash used in investing activities decreased by $1.3$1.7 million due to purchases of property, plant and equipment of $9.5$4.2 million for the first sixthree months of fiscal 2016,2017, compared to $10.8$5.9 million for the first sixthree months of fiscal 2015.2016. 

Cash Flow - Financing Activities
 
Net cash used by financing activities increased $2.7decreased $4.2 million to $15.9$5.4 million in the first halfquarter of fiscal 2017, compared to $9.6 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2016, compared to $18.6 million for the first half of fiscal 2015.  The board of directors authorized the repurchase of up to $100.0 million of the company outstanding stock through September 1, 2017.  During the first six monthsquarter of both fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016, the company repurchased $22.8 million related to the plan. During the first half of fiscal 2016, the Company had netrepayment of borrowings against the credit facility of $17.0$3.0 million. We paid dividends of $3.3 million compared to net payments of $18.0and $3.5 million in the first halfquarter of fiscal 2015. We paid dividends of $6.9 million for both the2017 and fiscal 2016, respectively. The first halfquarter of fiscal 20162017 and the first half of fiscal 2015. The first half of fiscal 2016 includes $7.6$0.3 million

28

Table of Contents

and $6.9 million, respectively, of taxes paid related to net share settlement of equity awards, partially offset by a $4.0 million excess tax benefit on those shares.awards. There were proceeds from the exercise of stock options of $0.4 million and $6.3$0.9 million in the first six monthsquarter of fiscal 2017. The first quarter of fiscal 2017 and the first quarter of fiscal 2016 includes $0.3 million and $3.8 million, respectively, of excess tax benefit on equity shares issued and on stock options exercised during the first six months of fiscal 2015, respectively.quarter.
 
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
 
We do not have any off-balance sheet arrangements, other than operating leases and purchase obligations entered into in the normal course of business.

Item 3.  Quantitative And Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
 
Certain of our foreign operations enter into transactions in currencies other than their functional currency, primarily the U.S. dollar and the Euro.euro.  A 10% change in foreign currency exchange rates from balance sheet date levels could impact our income before income taxes by $7.0$9.0 million as of October 31, 2015July 30, 2016 and $6.7$8.7 million as of May 2, 2015.April 30, 2016.  We also have foreign

currency exposure arising from the translation of our net equity investment in our foreign operations to U.S. dollars.  We generally view our investments in foreign operations with functional currencies other than the U.S. dollar as long-term.  The currencies to which we are exposed are the British pound, Chinese yuan, Euro,euro, Indian Rupee,rupee, Mexican peso, Singapore dollar and Swiss franc.  A 10% change in foreign currency exchange rates from balance sheet date levels could impact our net foreign investments by $31.2$36.4 million at October 31, 2015July 30, 2016 and $28.0$35.3 million at May 2, 2015.April 30, 2016.

We are exposed to market risk from changes in interest rates. The interest rate risk for our credit agreement, under which we had $22.0$54.0 million of net borrowings at October 31, 2015,July 30, 2016, is variable and is determined based on LIBOR. We estimate that a one percentage point change in interest rates would not have a material impact on our results of operations for fiscal 20162017 based upon our current and expected levels of our debt.
 
Item 4.  Controls And Procedures
 
As of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report on Form 10-Q, we performed an evaluation under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, of our “disclosure controls and procedures” (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934).  The Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that the information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports that we file or submit under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s applicable rules and forms.  As a result of this evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of the end of the period covered by this report, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective.
 
There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended October 31, 2015July 30, 2016 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.


29

Table of Contents

PART II.         OTHER INFORMATION


Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds.

The following table provides information about the Company's purchase of shares of Company's common stock during the quarter ended October 31, 2015.

ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
      Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs Maximum Number (or approximate dollar value) of remaining Shares that may be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs
Period Total Number of Shares Purchases Average Price Paid Per Share  
August 2, 2015 through August 29, 2015 
 $
 
 $
August 30, 2015 through October 3, 2015 710,502
(1)$31.99
 710,502
(1)$77.2 million
October 4, 2015 through October 31, 2015 
 $
 
 $

(1) In September 2015, the Company adopted a plan to repurchase up to $100.0 million of its common stock. The plan expires September 1, 2017.
Item 6.          Exhibits
 
Exhibit
Number
 Description
10.1
Agreement and General Release between the Company and Thomas Reynolds, effective September 28, 2015 (1)
10.2
Performance Based Restricted Stock Form Award Agreement dated October 7, 2015 (2)
10.3
Restricted Stock Unit Form Award Agreement dated October 7, 2015 (2)
10.4
Form of Amendment to Change in Control Agreement dated November 8, 2010 (3)
31.1 Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Principal Executive Officer
31.2 Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Principal Financial Officer
32 Certification of Periodic Financial Report Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350
101 Interactive Data File
10.1Change in Control Agreement dated July 25, 2016 between Methode Electronics, Inc. and John R. Hrudicka.
 
(1) Previously files with the Company's form 8-K filed on October 6, 2015, and incorporated herein by reference.
(2) Previously files with the Company's form 8-K filed on October 9, 2015, and incorporated herein by reference.
(3) The Form of Amendment to Change in Control Agreement filed with the Company's Form 8-K filed November 12, 2010 included a typographical error in amended Section 2 (e) regarding the executive's notice period. The corrected amendment has been filed herewith.





30


SIGNATURES
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
 
   METHODE ELECTRONICS, INC.
    
   By:/s/ Douglas A. KomanJohn R. Hrudicka
    Douglas A. KomanJohn R. Hrudicka
    Chief Financial Officer
    (principal financial officer)
    
Dated:December 10, 2015September 1, 2016  


31


INDEX TO EXHIBITS
 
Exhibit
Number
 Description
10.1
Agreement and General Release between the Company and Thomas Reynolds, effective September 28, 2015 (1)
10.2
Performance Based Restricted Stock Form Award Agreement dated October 7, 2015 (2)
10.3
Restricted Stock Unit Form Award Agreement dated October 7, 2015 (2)
10.4
Form of Amendment to Change in Control Agreement dated November 8, 2010 (3)
31.1 Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Principal Executive Officer
31.2 Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Principal Financial Officer
32 Certification of Periodic Financial Report Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350
101 Interactive Data File
10.1Change in Control Agreement dated July 25, 2016 between Methode Electronics, Inc. and John R. Hrudicka.
 
(1) Previously files with the Company's form 8-K filed on October 6, 2015, and incorporated herein by reference.
(2) Previously files with the Company's form 8-K filed on October 9, 2015, and incorporated herein by reference.
(3) The Form of Amendment to Change in Control Agreement filed with the Company's Form 8-K filed November 12, 2010 included a typographical error in amended Section 2 (e) regarding the executive's notice period. The corrected amendment has been filed herewith.

 




3225